United Nigeria Airlines has teamed up with the Nigerian Cancer Society to introduce the "United Against Cancer" campaign, an effort focused on promoting early detection and raising vital treatment funds across the country.
The partnership was formally unveiled at a media briefing held at the airline's office in Lagos, according to THISDAYLIVE. The project aims to spread cancer awareness and give travellers an easy way to contribute financially to patient care when purchasing flight tickets.
Speaking on the initiative, the Managing Director of United Nigeria Airlines, Mazi Osita Okonkwo, explained that personal loss and his own medical journey helped drive the company's commitment. He shared that he survived cancer and also lost two of his sisters to the illness, noting that being open about his experience helps reassure others that a diagnosis is not an automatic end to life.
Okonkwo outlined that the campaign operates on two fronts: the first focuses on widespread public education and early detection, while the second assists individuals whose conditions require active medical intervention. Travellers booking flights on the airline's website can make voluntary donations starting from N1,000 up to N100,000 or more. All raised funds will go straight into a designated bank account managed entirely by the Nigerian Cancer Society.
In addition to online giving, the airline plans to use its aircraft and ground facilities to spread the message. Cabin crew members will share updates on flights, informational brochures will be placed in seat pockets, and joint campaign materials will be displayed at airport check-in counters.
The President of the Nigerian Cancer Society, Prof. Abidemi Omonisi, praised the airline for setting up the initiative under its corporate social responsibility drive. The pathologist stated that cancer remains a financially devastating condition that can wipe out family finances, pointing out that advanced treatments like immunotherapy can cost as much as N50 million.
Omonisi stated that donations will help finance nationwide screening, diagnostics, and care for low-income patients in both urban areas and neglected rural locations. He warned against isolated screening drives that leave patients unsupported after testing positive, calling instead for continuous medical care and community outreach to clear misconceptions surrounding the illness.
