BY SUNDAY EGEDE
Delta State Government (DTSG), yesterday, donated N10 million to support the Miss Chineyenwa Judith Amadi’s humanitarian services under “A Ride For Life’ Initiative, which seek to raise funds for cancer patients in the country.
Presenting the N10m cheque to Miss Amadi on behalf of the state government, Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Dr. Kingsley Emu noted that cancer remained one of the most challenging and devastating diseases affecting people in the contemporary society.
Dr. Emu said the state government was honoured to be associated with the project, pointing out that the Governor gave a clear directive that the sum of N10m be donated in support of the cause.
“This is our contribution, our statement of solidarity, and our commitment to humanity,” he said, adding that the state government’s gesture stemmed from its resolve to give a massive boost to the noble cause.
Dr. Emu noted that the scourge of cancer was a burden that touches families, communities, and the entire healthcare system, saying that any gesture aimed at alleviating the burden is not only welcome but deeply appreciated.
As a state government, he said, we fully recognize this challenge, and we are doing a great deal to confront it head-on, saying “at present, we acknowledge that we do not yet have a fully operational therapy facility within the state.
“However, I am pleased to inform you that discussions and plans are already at an advanced stage to establish such a facility, so that our people can receive quality care right here in Delta State, without the added hardship of traveling far from home.”
While commending Miss Amadi, who travelled to 16 countries in the world with a motorcycle in her campaign to raise support for cancer patients, the SSG said the Commissioner for Health had already made important commitments, particularly in the area of technical assistance, affirming that the state was investing in saving lives through the donation.
“This is not just about goodwill; it is about providing the right information, guidance, and support to help projects like this effectively reach their target audience and make real impact,” he added.
Also speaking at the ceremony, held at the SSG’s Conference Hall, Asaba, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Joseph Onojaeme said while treatment is critical, prevention remains the most powerful tool in the fight against cancer, stressing that prevention is key.
For instance, he said, in the case of cervical cancer, early intervention through appropriate medical procedures can significantly reduce, and in many cases prevent the disease.
“The same applies to breast cancer. When detected early, breast cancer is highly manageable. Regular hospital visits, routine general check-ups, and timely breast examinations can lead to early detection of lumps and save lives,” he stated. The commissioner reaffirmed the state government’s commitment not only to physical infrastructure but to the provision of modern medical equipment, saying “across our three senatorial districts, we have functional MRI facilities, including advanced, state-of-the-art MRI services that rank among the best available.
“These are critical, expensive, and life-saving investments and they demonstrate our resolve to build a strong and responsive healthcare system.”
In her speech, Miss Chineyenwa Judith Amadi, who was visibly elated with the support from the state government, said the goal for her initiative was to raise funds for cancer patients who could not afford treatment and to give them a reason to smile, a reason to keep fighting, and a reason to believe that they were not alone.
“This journey is deeply personal for me. I have lost loved ones to cancer. I also have loved ones who have survived cancer. And beyond that, I have had a very close, personal experience with someone who is currently fighting cancer. That is where everything you see today truly began.
“Earlier this year, I reached out to her, and she told me she could barely afford her chemotherapy. Without hesitation, I started supporting her treatment from my personal funds. We were able to complete her chemotherapy, but when it was time for surgery, we both ran out of money. That moment was a wake-up call for me. “I realized that there are countless people just like her—people who have started chemotherapy, who have the will to live, but are forced to stop halfway simply because they cannot afford to continue. They are not lacking courage. They are lacking support.
“That realization pushed me to invest what personal funds I had into a project I named “A Ride For Your Life.” The goal is simple but powerful: to raise funds for people in this situation and to give them a reason to smile, a reason to keep fighting, and a reason to believe that they are not alone.”
The event was attended by the Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu; the Permanent Secretary, Hospitals Management Board (HMB), Dr. Paul Okubor and the Chief Press Secretary (CPS) to the Governor, Mr. Festus Ahon among others.
