NABOF Unveils Website, Backs Student Cancer Studies

The NanaFatimah Amele Bamigbetan Oncology Foundation (NABOF) recently marked a significant milestone, officially launching its digital platform and distributing initial oncology research grants to aspiring medical professionals. These dual initiatives are designed to foster advancements in cancer studies and empower Nigeria's future generation of researchers. The unveiling occurred at the foundation's maiden Oncology Research Student Award ceremony, hosted at the Lagos State University College of Medicine (LASUCOM) Amphitheatre in Ikeja.

Collaborating with LASUCOM, the foundation's grants are set to fund three distinct student-driven research endeavors, each targeting critical areas: breast, cervical, and prostate cancers. During the event, Omolara Fatiregun, who chairs NABOF's Board of Trustees, highlighted that this undertaking underscores the foundation's dedication to propelling cancer research forward and enhancing the quality of life for patients.

Fatiregun stated, "This is a celebration of hope, innovation and purposeful philanthropy. With cancer cases projected to rise significantly by 2030, investing in research is no longer optional. It is essential if we are to improve prevention, early diagnosis and treatment." She further emphasized that by empowering young scientists, Nigeria's capability to tackle its increasing cancer challenges would be considerably enhanced.

NABOF's newly introduced online portal is intended to be a central hub for showcasing its various activities, streamlining the donation process, fostering stronger collaborations, and disseminating information regarding its efforts in oncology research, educational programs, and patient support.

Felicia Sonubi, the Managing Director of Emerging Africa Trustees, explained that the foundation was established to honor the memory of the late Nana Fatimah Amele Bamigbetan, following her family's personal encounter with cancer. Sonubi remarked, "The foundation grew out of a painful personal loss and a determination to support research that will improve early detection and treatment outcomes for others."

During the awards event, Oyinlola Soyombo and her collaborators were granted funding for their project exploring awareness levels of breast and cervical cancer among female secondary school students within the Ikeja Local Government Area. Separately, a research group comprising Bukola Fulani, Idris Ibrahim, and Alli Gbemisola received financial backing for their investigation into the influence of integrins on breast cancer prognosis. Furthermore, Khalid Olapade's team secured support for a study on the psychological burden experienced by prostate cancer patients at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH). This research aims to pinpoint factors leading to mental health issues and enhance psychosocial support for those battling cancer.

Professor Olayinka Ogunleye, who serves as the chairman of LASUCOM’s Research Management and Development Committee and represented the Provost, stated that the chosen awardees were selected after a thorough evaluation of research proposals submitted under academic guidance. He highlighted that fostering undergraduate research contributes significantly to establishing a robust scientific ethos and preparing upcoming medical scientists. Professor Ogunleye noted, "Encouraging research at this stage helps nurture future scientists and strengthens the culture of inquiry that is critical to medical advancement."

Kehinde Bamigbetan, the founder of the foundation, articulated that both the new website and the research grants signify crucial achievements in NABOF's overarching goal to enhance cancer care through dedicated research and public education. He explained, "The website will enable us to reach more partners, supporters and donors who share our vision. These grants demonstrate our commitment to nurturing future oncology researchers because every study we support brings us closer to better cancer prevention, diagnosis and treatment. Every contribution and every research project funded keeps the memory of NanaFatimah Amele Bamigbetan alive through service to humanity."