The Care. Organisation. Public. Enlightenment (C.O.P.E) has commemorated 30 years of groundbreaking work in breast cancer awareness, early detection and survivor support with an inspiring anniversary event held at the Marriott Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos.
The gathering brought together healthcare experts, breast cancer survivors, donors, and long-standing corporate partners led by Polaris Bank, C.O.P.E’s principal supporter for many years.
Chairman of the C.O.P.E Board of Trustees, Emeritus Professor Osato Giwa-Osagie, revisited the organisation’s humble beginnings, recalling his first encounter with its Founder, Mrs. Ebunola Anozie. He described her as “a persuasive and passionate woman whose vision has transformed the landscape of breast health in Nigeria.”
He noted that C.O.P.E has become a nationwide catalyst for early detection and support services, offering free monthly breast screenings, prosthetic bras, and financial aid to women battling breast cancer.
“In the last ten years, Nigeria has recorded significant improvements in breast cancer survival rates, largely due to early detection and sustained public education,” he said. Professor Giwa-Osagie further revealed that C.O.P.E has begun importing specialised breast supplements for post-mastectomy patients, now available at the organisation’s centre.
He added that the next major goal is the establishment of a fully equipped permanent C.O.P.E Centre featuring a screening unit, conference hall, and residential facility for women undergoing treatment or recovery.
In an emotional reflection, C.O.P.E Founder and CEO, Mrs. Ebunola Anozie, recounted how the loss of a loved one inspired a mission that has endured for three decades.
“C.O.P.E was born out of grief, but it became my way of transforming pain into purpose,” she said. “From a simple awareness campaign in 1995, we have grown into a national movement that has educated millions and provided lifesaving early-detection services to thousands of women. Our journey continues we need a permanent home where every woman can access hope, healing, and compassionate care.”
Mrs. Anozie expressed deep appreciation to Polaris Bank and other corporate partners whose unwavering support has sustained C.O.P.E through economic challenges and expansions.
One of the evening’s most stirring moments came from survivor Mrs. Agatha Obi, who shared how C.O.P.E became her anchor after her diagnosis.
“In 2011, doctors told me I needed a mastectomy. I was devastated,” she recalled. “But through C.O.P.E, I found courage, community, and hope. Thirteen years later, I am alive, thriving, and grateful to this organisation that stood by me when I needed it most.”
Representing Polaris Bank Managing Director, Mrs. Bukola Oluyadi delivered a goodwill message that underscored the Bank’s dedication to C.O.P.E’s mission.
“Reaching three decades of dedicated advocacy is no small feat,” she said. “C.O.P.E has been a beacon of hope and positive change. Polaris Bank remains committed to supporting breast cancer awareness, early detection, and sustained care. Together, we will continue to empower women, strengthen families, and transform communities.”
Mrs. Oluyadi praised C.O.P.E’s team for their tireless work in public enlightenment and healthcare access, assuring that the Bank will remain a strong partner in initiatives that improve national wellbeing.
The 30th anniversary celebration concluded with renewed commitments from partners and donors to support the development of a permanent C.O.P.E Centre envisioned as a sanctuary of hope, support, and essential healthcare for women across Nigeria.