The Rivers State Government has screened over 1,000 residents for cervical, prostate and breast cancer at the Dr. Peter Odili Cancer and Cardiovascular Hospital in Port Harcourt.
The free screening was conducted during a cancer awareness walk and sensitisation programme organised by the Rivers State Ministry of Health on February 28, 2026, to create awareness about services at the cancer and cardiovascular centre located in Rumuokwuta.
Speaking at the event, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Prof. Justina Jumbo, urged residents to take advantage of the facility for early detection and treatment of cancer and cardiovascular diseases.
She described cancer as a chronic and potentially deadly disease that affects both men and women, noting that early detection through regular screening remains key to successful treatment.
According to her, the centre, built by the immediate past administration and sustained by the present government, was established to reduce the need for residents to travel outside the state for diagnosis and treatment.
“Early detection is key. If cancer is detected early, it can be properly treated. We are appealing to the public to make use of this world-class facility now available in the state,” she said, adding that while some screening services are free, others are subsidised.
Chief Executive Officer, of the hospital, Tony Rahme, said the 65-bed facility operates on three major pillars, oncology and advanced oncology surgery, cardiovascular care including open-heart surgery, and kidney transplant and nephrology.
He assured residents of quality healthcare delivery, disclosing that foreign experts, including specialists from Saudi Arabia and a team of Filipino nurses, are collaborating with local professionals while also training indigenous health workers to ensure sustainable care.
Also speaking, Director of Medical Services at the Ministry of Health, Dr. Wachuku Vincent, said the government would extend cancer awareness campaigns to communities across all local government areas of the state.
He noted that screenings conducted during the event to mark World Cancer Day were free, while subsequent services would be highly subsidised to make them affordable to all segments of society.
The hospital, which was officially opened in September 2025, commenced full medical services two months ago. Officials say the facility is positioned to serve not only residents of Rivers State but patients from across Nigeria and beyond.
