L-R: Head Coach, Tee Tumblers Gymnastics Club & Lagos State Gymnastics Club, Patrick Umoh; CEO, Tee Tumblers Gymnastics Club and Co-founder, Gymfest Championship 2.0, Yoyin Akpose; Creative Coach, Gymfest Championship 2.0, Oyegbata Chinedu; and Gymfest Program Coordinator, Faith Oaikhiena; flanked by some participants during the Gymfest Championship 2.0 sponsored by Fidelity Bank Plc and held in Lagos, recently.
The Care Organization Public Enlightenment (C.O.P.E) has celebrated its 30th anniversary, marking three decades of pioneering work in breast cancer awareness, early detection, advocacy, and survivor support.
The commemorative event held at the Marriott Hotel in Ikeja brought together healthcare experts, survivors, donors, and corporate partners led by Polaris Bank, the organisation’s longstanding sponsor.
Chairman of C.O.P.E’s Board of Trustees, Emeritus Professor Osato Giwa Osagie, paid tribute to the organisation’s journey and its Founder, Mrs. Ebunola Anozie. He described Anozie as a persuasive and passionate advocate whose vision “has changed the narrative of breast health in Nigeria.”
He noted that C.O.P.E has grown into a national force, offering free monthly breast screenings, prosthetic bras, and financial assistance to women battling breast cancer.
Professor Giwa Osagie highlighted significant improvement in breast cancer survival rates over the last decade, attributing the progress to early detection and consistent public education.
He disclosed that C.O.P.E has now begun importing breast supplements specifically for women who have undergone mastectomy, available directly at the organisation’s centre to support recovery and confidence.
He added that the organisation’s next major goal is the establishment of a permanent C.O.P.E Centre that will feature a screening unit, conference hall, and a residential facility for women undergoing treatment or recovery.
Reflecting on the organisation’s journey, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Mrs. Ebunola Anozie, said C.O.P.E was born from personal grief but evolved into a mission of purpose.
She recalled how a small advocacy campaign in 1995 expanded into a nationwide movement that has educated millions and provided lifesaving screenings for thousands of women.
Anozie emphasised that despite the milestones achieved, more work still lies ahead. She renewed the call for the development of a permanent centre that will serve as a sanctuary of hope, healing, and professional care for women across Nigeria.
She also expressed gratitude to Polaris Bank and other partners whose unwavering support has sustained C.O.P.E through varying economic climates.
One of the highlights of the event was the emotional testimony of Mrs. Agatha Obi, a breast cancer survivor who encountered C.O.P.E during her treatment.
She recounted receiving a diagnosis in 2011 that required a mastectomy, describing the experience as devastating. However, she said C.O.P.E provided courage, community, and hope at her lowest moment.
“Thirteen years later, I am alive, thriving, and grateful,” she told the audience.
Delivering a goodwill message on behalf of the Managing Director of Polaris Bank, Mrs. Bukola Oluyadi reaffirmed the Bank’s commitment to supporting C.O.P.E’s mission.
She described the organisation’s 30-year milestone as evidence of dedication, resilience and impactful service to society.
Oluyadi said Polaris Bank is proud to partner with a foundation whose work “embodies compassion, empowerment and positive change.” She added that the Bank remains committed to advancing the fight against breast cancer through awareness campaigns, early detection initiatives, and sustained care programs.
She commended the C.O.P.E team for their unwavering commitment to public enlightenment and improved access to healthcare.
She assured that Polaris Bank will continue to be a steadfast partner in efforts that strengthen families and transform communities nationwide.
The 30th anniversary celebration ended with renewed pledges of support from partners and donors toward the organisation’s vision of building a permanent C.O.P.E Centre.
The proposed facility is expected to become a beacon of hope for women affected by breast cancer across Nigeria.
