The adage “Health is Wealth” has been brought to the fore by NNPC Limited through its impactful health-focused initiatives. By investing in the health and well-being of Nigerians, the company underscores its belief that a healthy population is vital to national prosperity.
A Legacy of Health Interventions
Even before its transformation into NNPC Limited, the company demonstrated a strong commitment to public health. Its initiatives included constructing and equipping health centres in host communities and organising nationwide medical outreach programmes.
With the establishment of the NNPC Foundation – dedicated to corporate social responsibility (CSR), NNPC Limited has elevated its public health contributions, setting new benchmarks for improving healthcare access and enhancing the quality of life across Nigeria.
Tackling Cancer Through Awareness and Screening
Cancer, a disease responsible for over 79,000 deaths in Nigeria in 2023, has become a major focus of the NNPC Foundation’s health initiatives. The Foundation has launched free cancer screening campaigns that have reached over 3,441 individuals nationwide.
One notable campaign, titled “Cancer Awareness and ZSX Screening,” spanned all six geopolitical zones, with screening centres in Kaduna, Rivers, Ondo, Benue, Imo, and Gombe states. These programmes provided free screenings for breast, cervical, and prostate cancers, complemented by health education sessions, workshops on recognizing early symptoms, and consultations with healthcare professionals.
Speaking about the campaign, Mrs. Emmanuella Arukwe, Managing Director of NNPC Foundation Ltd, remarked: “The fight against cancer requires collective effort and accessible healthcare. This campaign is about more than screening; it’s about saving lives, building awareness, and creating pathways to preventive care for Nigerians who need it most.”
She further highlighted the urgency of addressing cancer in Nigeria, stating: “In a nation of over 200 million people, far too many lack access to life-saving early detection tools. Through these campaigns, we aim to close this gap and improve survival rates through early diagnosis.”
In February 2024, the Foundation organized another cancer screening campaign in Abuja, targeting the barriers that contribute to late-stage diagnoses, such as limited access to healthcare facilities, cultural stigmas, and lack of awareness.
Addressing Nigeria’s Cancer Burden
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Nigeria records over 79,000 cancer-related deaths annually, with prostate and liver cancer being most common among men, while breast and cervical cancer dominate among women.
Broader Healthcare Interventions
NNPC Foundation’s healthcare efforts extend beyond cancer. Notable initiatives include: Medical Outreach in Garki, Abuja – benefiting 450 community members with free checkups, treatments, and medical supplies and glaucoma screenings in Utako Market, Abuja – reaching 291 traders with free eye health services.
The foundation, in partnership with the Nigerian Cardiac Society, sponsored free heart surgeries for 40 patients suffering from various cardiac conditions.
Humanitarian Support
NNPC Foundation’s impact also extends to humanitarian assistance, including: flood relief in Borno State where 20 trucks of food, potable water, medical supplies, and sanitary products were delivered to the flood victims.
Support for Children with Disabilities
The foundation on behalf of NNPC Limited, donated 60 mattresses and dental accessories to the Ile-Ife Special School for Children with Disabilities.
Commitment to Health and National Prosperity
Through its holistic approach to corporate social responsibility, NNPC Limited is redefining its role in Nigeria’s development. By fostering a healthier population through innovative healthcare initiatives, the company is not only driving economic growth but also building a more prosperous future for all Nigerians.
Austin Chukwudi
Vertex Media, Warri, Delta State.
vertexmedialogi@gmail.com