The Engraced Life Foundation, in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO) and other key partners, commemorated its fifth anniversary with the 4th edition of the PinkNaija Walk Against Breast Cancer, drawing hundreds of participants in a vibrant show of unity and advocacy.

The annual walk, which has become the Foundation’s flagship program, aimed to raise awareness about breast cancer, promote early detection, and strengthen community health responses across Nigeria.

Speaking at the event, WHO Rivers State Coordinator, Dr. Abdulganiyu Giwa, commended the initiative, describing it as a vital contribution to the fight against cancer.

“Health is a collective right and responsibility of everyone. Your commitment to making screening and health talks accessible is crucial to reducing the burden of breast cancer in Nigeria and beyond. Your work has remained a message of hope and a powerful call to action for communities everywhere,” he said.

At the heart of the walk were breast cancer survivors who shared emotional testimonies of survival and resilience. Ethel Olomu, a 15-year survivor and founder of the Engraced Life Foundation, reflected on her personal experience:

“Because of shame, some women keep quiet until it’s too late. I started this because I don’t want any woman to go through the pain I endured. It was really bad.”

Another survivor, Dayo Ojo, who has been cancer-free for 14 years, emphasized the importance of early screening and treatment:

“If you find something on your breast and don’t check it out, you’re living in denial. Early detection and prompt treatment are the keys to survival.”

The day featured free health screenings — including breast cancer checks, blood pressure, malaria, and blood sugar tests — as well as fitness exercises, health talks, and advocacy sessions.

Adding glamour to the event, Nollywood actress Matilda Lambert served as Pacesetter, leading the walk alongside influencers, bikers, and community groups.

“I am honored to lead this walk with survivors and community champions. If even one woman is inspired to check her breast, then every step we took today mattered,” she said.

Organizations such as the Medical Women’s Association of Nigeria (MWAN), SERVICOM CDS Group, Obio Akpor LGA, and the PH Panthers bikers club lent strong support to the campaign.

The Foundation also presented its annual PinkHeroes Awards, recognizing outstanding advocates and supporters. Presenting the awards, Dr. Ufuoma Edewor, Chairperson of the Engraced Life Foundation Advisory Board, said:

“Today we honor survivors, advocates, and supporters whose dedication moves us closer to a breast cancer-free Nigeria. Together, we build bridges to health, hope, and healing.”

In her closing remarks, Tamunotonye Pamela Daniel, National Coordinator of the Foundation, expressed gratitude to all participants and partners.

“This walk is more than a march — it’s a declaration that no woman fights breast cancer alone. In the coming weeks, we will bring free screening to Rivers, Oyo, and Ekiti States, and on World Cancer Day 2026, we’ll launch our PinkRoom School Outreach. Let our voices echo: early detection saves lives.”

The event concluded with renewed commitment from all stakeholders to continue spreading awareness and ensuring accessible cancer screening for women across Nigeria.