By Noble Uchegbu Uchechukwu Zachariah
Federal Polytechnic Nekede, Owerri, on Tuesday, 27 January 2026, ushered in the 2026 academic year with a solemn and purpose driven gathering that blended spiritual reflection, institutional recommitment and life saving health education, as the institution held its 9th Solemn Assembly, dedicating the year to God.
The event, which brought together members of Management, staff and students, came shortly after a Special Thanksgiving Service on December 4, 2025, marking one year in office of the Polytechnic’s 9th Substantive Rector, Dr. Mrs. Basilia Nkemdilim Igbokwe.
Together, both occasions reflected gratitude for progress made and a renewed resolve to pursue excellence anchored on values, discipline and collective responsibility.
In her address, the Rector stressed the importance of beginning the year with reflection, gratitude and unity of purpose, noting that sustainable institutional growth must be built on sound values, innovation and a strong sense of service. She charged the Polytechnic community to remain focused, resilient and committed to academic excellence and personal development.
Beyond its spiritual significance, the Solemn Assembly was significantly enriched by an in-depth Cancer Awareness Health Talk, reinforcing the Polytechnic’s commitment to the wellbeing of its staff and students as a foundation for productivity and excellence.
The health session was delivered by Dr. Chinomso Patricia Dozie, _Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Hearts & Roses Cancer Advocacy Foundation, Nigeria as part of activities marking World Cancer Day.
In her presentation titled “A One-Day Cancer Awareness Education,” Dr. Dozie provided a comprehensive overview of cancer, describing it as an abnormal and uncontrolled growth of cells capable of invading surrounding tissues and spreading to distant parts of the body. She emphasized that cancer is not a single disease but a group of over one hundred related diseases, and that early detection remains the most critical factor in improving survival and treatment outcomes.
Focusing on breast cancer, the speaker explained that it originates from breast cells and, while more common in women, can also occur in men. She outlined its major types, including ductal carcinoma in situ, invasive ductal carcinoma, inflammatory and metastatic breast cancers. Dr. Dozie highlighted key risk factors such as increasing age, genetic mutations, family and personal history, early menstruation, late menopause and prolonged use of oral contraceptives. She stressed the importance of breast self examination, clinical examination, mammography and other imaging techniques, noting that prevention through healthy lifestyle choices, weight control, physical activity and breastfeeding plays a vital role._
On lung cancer, described as the leading cause of cancer-related deaths globally, Dr. Dozie revealed that tobacco use accounts for the majority of cases, with many patients already having advanced disease at the time of diagnosis. She discussed common symptoms such as persistent cough, chest pain, breathing difficulties, unexplained weight loss and blood-stained sputum, while emphasizing the dangers of smoking, air pollution and occupational exposure. She explained that diagnosis often involves imaging and biopsy, and that management may include surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy.
Addressing prostate cancer , the guest speaker noted that it remains a major cause of death and disability among Nigerian men, with higher risk observed among black men, older adults and those with a family history. She identified symptoms such as frequent or painful urination, weak urine stream, blood in urine and lower back or hip pain, urging men to adopt healthier diets and seek early medical evaluation.
Dr. Dozie also spoke extensively on cervical cancer, one of the most common cancers affecting women, explaining that over 95 percent of cases are linked to the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). She noted that the disease is highly curable when detected early, but often presents no symptoms in its early stages. Screening methods such as Pap smear, HPV testing and cervical biopsy were highlighted as essential tools for prevention and early diagnosis.
Concluding her presentation, the speaker underscored the importance of regular screening, noting that early detection reduces complications, lowers treatment costs and significantly decreases cancer related morbidity and mortality. She encouraged staff and students to take personal responsibility for their health and to spread cancer awareness within their families and communities.
Participants described the health talk as educative, timely and impactful, commending the Polytechnic for integrating critical health education into its academic and spiritual calendar.
The 9th Solemn Assembly also stood as a milestone, being the ninth such gathering under the current Rector’s leadership, reflecting consistency in vision and a deliberate effort to nurture the moral, intellectual and physical wellbeing of the Federal Polytechnic Nekede community.
As the institution steps confidently into 2026, the convergence of faith, health consciousness and visionary leadership once again positions Federal Polytechnic Nekede not just as a centre of learning, but as a community deeply invested in the total development and wellbeing of its people.
