Polaris Bank Celebrates C.O.P.E’s 30 Years of Impact in Cancer Care

Polaris Bank Celebrates C.O.P.E’s 30 Years of Impact in Cancer Care

Lagos, Nigeria — The Care. Organization. Public. Enlightenment (C.O.P.E) has commemorated 30 years of championing breast cancer awareness, early detection, and patient support with a grand anniversary event held at the Marriott Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos.

The milestone celebration brought together healthcare professionals, survivors, donors, and longstanding corporate partners — notably Polaris Bank, which has supported the organisation for many years.

Chairman of C.O.P.E’s Board of Trustees, Emeritus Professor Osato Giwa Osagie, reflected on the organisation’s journey and his first encounter with Founder, Mrs. Ebunola Anozie, whom he described as “a persuasive and passionate woman whose vision has changed the narrative of breast health in Nigeria.”

He highlighted the organisation’s impact over the years, including free monthly breast screenings, prosthetic bras, and financial support for women in need. According to him, improved awareness and early diagnosis have contributed significantly to better breast cancer survival rates in Nigeria.

“We have also begun importing breast supplements designed for women who have undergone mastectomy, now available at the C.O.P.E Centre,” he added. He revealed that the organisation’s next major goal is establishing a permanent C.O.P.E Centre featuring a screening unit, conference facility, and residential accommodation for women undergoing treatment or recovery.

In an emotional address, Founder and CEO, Mrs. Ebunola Anozie, recounted how personal tragedy led to the birth of the organisation in 1995.
“C.O.P.E was born out of grief, but it became my way of transforming pain into purpose,” she said. “From a modest campaign, we have grown into a national movement that has educated millions and offered lifesaving early detection services to thousands of women. But there is still much more to be done.”

She expressed deep appreciation to Polaris Bank and other partners whose support has sustained C.O.P.E’s mission for three decades.

One of the highlights of the event was the testimony of Mrs. Agatha Obi, a breast cancer survivor who discovered C.O.P.E during her treatment.
“In 2011, I was told I needed a mastectomy. It was devastating,” she shared. “But through C.O.P.E, I found courage, community, and hope. Thirteen years later, I am thriving — thanks to this organisation that stood by me.”

Representing the Managing Director of Polaris Bank, Mrs. Bukola Oluyadi delivered a goodwill message reaffirming the Bank’s commitment to supporting cancer care and advocacy.
“Reaching three decades of dedicated service is no small feat,” she said. “Polaris Bank remains proud to stand with an organisation that embodies compassion, resilience, and impact. We will continue to support initiatives that drive awareness, early detection, and improved care for women across Nigeria.”

She applauded the C.O.P.E team for its unwavering dedication to public enlightenment and healthcare access, assuring that the Bank will maintain its partnership in the years ahead.

The 30th anniversary celebration ended with renewed commitments from partners and donors to support the establishment of a permanent C.O.P.E Centre — envisioned as a hub of hope, healing, and empowerment for women nationwide.