TotalEnergies, NNPC Ltd inaugurate state-of-the-art mammography centre in Bauchi State
By Rauf Oyewole, Bauchi
TotalEnergies, in partnership with NNPCL, has established a state-of-the-art mammography centre at the General Hospital, Azare, Bauchi State, to enhance cancer detection and treatment services.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony on Wednesday, Matthieu Bouyer, MD/CEO and Country Chair of TotalEnergies Upstream Nigeria Limited, described the facility as equipped with the latest Senographe Pristina 3D technology.
The machine offers 3D imaging with minimal radiation exposure, ensuring superior diagnostic accuracy for early breast cancer detection.
“The facility can examine over 120 patients daily, making it suitable for large-scale screening exercises. It supports digital breast tomosynthesis and stereotaxy for precise image-guided biopsies while prioritizing patient comfort,” Bouyer explained.
He noted that the initiative was driven by the urgent need to detect cancer early, reduce mortality, and address healthcare access gaps in northern Nigeria.
“Nigeria records over 120,000 new cancer cases annually, according to a December 2023 report by the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment.
“This project aims to improve access to early diagnosis, timely treatment, and follow-up care, ultimately saving lives,” he added.
The project was a collaborative effort involving TotalEnergies, NNPC Limited, SAPETRO, CNOOC, and PRIME 130.
Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, represented by Deputy Governor Auwal Jatau, praised the donors for the life-saving initiative targeting underserved communities.
“This partnership underscores the commitment to sustainable development and enhanced healthcare services, especially in light of current global economic challenges,” Mohammed noted.
Commissioner for Health, Sani Dambam, urged proper management of the facility while pledging the government’s support for its maintenance.
He also commended the donors for choosing Bauchi State as the project’s beneficiary.
