Wife of Zamfara State Governor, Hurriya Lawal, has emerged as the National Secretary of the ‘First Ladies Against Cancer (FLAC) Initiative’, a coalition of Nigerian First Ladies championing the fight against cancer through advocacy, policy reform and direct community intervention.
The Senior Special Assistant in the Media Office of the First Lady, Rabi’atu Yusuf, said the appointment reflects a resounding recognition of her outstanding contributions to healthcare development, particularly in cancer awareness, prevention and care in Zamfara State and beyond.
It added that in her new National role, Her Excellency will work closely with fellow First Ladies to scale up advocacy and mobilise resources for the improvement of cancer care systems, especially for underserved communities.
According to the statement, this appointment followed the recent FLAC Cancer Support Donation Ceremony held at the Imo State House, Asokoro, Abuja, where they deliberated on how to strengthen survivor services and promote early detection campaigns across Nigeria.
A consistent advocate for accessible and equitable healthcare, Huriyya Dauda Lawal has distinguished herself through impactful initiatives that directly benefit the most vulnerable.
Under her leadership, Zamfara State has witnessed free breast cancer screenings, awareness campaigns, and the full sponsorship of surgeries for over 100 cancer patients, and she also made a personal donation of ₦3.5 million towards the treatment of indigent cancer patients, revealing her compassionate and hands-on approach to public health challenges.
As FLAC Secretary, Her Excellency’s leadership is expected to add fresh momentum to the coalition’s national outreach, including advocacy for inclusive healthcare policies, community-driven interventions, and survivor-centred care.
The Zamfara Governor’s wife’s appointment also signals greater involvement of Northern Nigeria in cancer-related policy dialogue and service delivery.
The Abuja donation ceremony featured the presentation of financial support to two leading cancer support organisations, including the Network of People Impacted by Cancer in Nigeria (NePICiN) and the Health & Psychological Trust Centre, further demonstrating FLAC’s commitment to improving the lives of cancer patients and survivors.
Chairperson of FLAC who is the First Lady of Imo State, Her Excellency Barrister Chioma Uzodimma, hailed the initiative as a profound investment in life, dignity, and health equity.
She was joined by other prominent First Ladies of Taraba, Cross Rivers, Enugu, Kebbi and Zamfara States.
(Editor: Nkoli Omhoudu)