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From Felix Ikem, Nsukka
A consultant Urological Surgeon at the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Ituku Ozalla Enugu, Dr Louis Okolie has called for increased awareness and early screening to help minimise the rising cases of prostate cancer in the country.
Okolie said this in Nsukka on Wednesday while delivering the Health Talk speech during the maiden edition of the Enugu Regional Association, University of Nigeria, Nsukka (ERA-UNN) Distinguished Lecture Series, with the theme “Collaborative Governance: Harnessing Intellectual Capital for Leadership Development.”
He said that prostate cancer is a disease that develops in the prostate gland responsible for producing seminal fluid which according to him often progresses silently in its early stages, making routine screening critical for early detection and effective treatment.
“Prostate cancer occurs when cells in the prostate grow uncontrollably. In its early stages, it may not present symptoms, which is why screening is essential.
“Early detection of prostate cancer is crucial because it significantly improves survival rates and treatment success.
“That is why it is advisable for
men at average risk to begin discussing screening with their doctor around age 50,” he said.
The medical expert explained further that men of African descent face a significantly higher risk of aggressive prostate cancer, which he said often develops at a younger age 40-45 compared to other populations.
“The factors responsible for its high cases in Africa include genetic predispositions, limited screening access, and late diagnosis, leading to higher mortality rates,” he said.
In a remark, the UNN Vice-chancellor Prof Simon Ortuanya commended ERA for organising the lecture and described the theme of the event and the health talk as apt and commendable.
Ortuanya who was represented by
Prof Mike Onyia, Deputy Vice-Chancellor Administration, said the event was an interface between town and gown that would promote symbiotic benefits.
The VC said the choice of Monsignor Prof Ike Obiora as the keynote speaker, once again showed that ERA always go for the best.
Speaking, the maiden Guest Lecturer of the ERA distinguished lecture series, Prof Ike, who is the Pro Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, State University of Medical and Applied Sciences (SUMAS) Igbo-Eno, Enugu State urged Nigerians to always be a light that would send darkness away.
Ike noted that it had been proven that darkness disappears immediately light comes in.
“We are suffering in our country now because many political, religious and educational leaders have failed to be a light to the country.
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“Teachers should teach students truth and character, our political leaders should be transparent and accountable and our religious leaders should preach the truth and show good examples to their members.
“What we need to move this country forward is ethical leadership that is rooted in truth, good character and good example
“We owe the youths who are the future leaders of this country the truth, which will direct and guide them to be light and ethical leaders in future,” he said.
The Monsignor expressed appreciation to ERA leadership for finding him worthy to deliver the maiden lecture series of the association.
He suggested that the name of the organisation should be changed to Staff of Enugu and Ebonyi (SEE) hence membership of the association comprised Enugu State and Ebonyi State staff in UNN.
Earlier in his welcome address, Prof Chukwuedozie Ajaero, President ERA-UNN, said that the lecture series is not only a platform for intellectual engagement but also a reaffirmation of the association’s collective commitment to scholarship, leadership and service to society.
According to him, “the lecture series aligns strongly with ERA-UNN’s core objective which includes, promoting unity among members, fostering cooperation, advancing socio-economic and cultural interests, and serving as a rallying point for the exchange of ideas for the growth and development of our region and beyond.”
Ajaero stated that ERA-UNN had over the years, remained steadfast in its mission, adding that members of the association bring together teaching and non-teaching staff of UNN who are indigenous to Enugu and most parts of Ebonyi State, as well as valued colleagues who continue with the association even after leaving active services.
“This distinguished lecture series will serve as a cornerstone for intellectual exchange, mentorship, and policy-relevant discourse, which are key ingredients for sustainable development in our region and nation.
“As an association, we are deliberately repositioning ourselves, not merely as a platform for social connections, but as a driving force for transformative impact,” he said.
The president commended the Guest Lecturer, Monsignor Prof Obiora Ike, Dr Okolie, for their quality and impactful presentations, as well as all the guests who came from far and near to grace the occasion.
In an interview with our correspondent, Prof Florence Orabueze, the Director, Institute of Maritime Studies University of Nigeria Enugu Campus and Chairperson of ASUU-UNN said she agreed with the guest lecturer that teachers should teach students truth and character.
“That was why when I assumed office on October 11, 2025, as ASUU UNN Chairperson, I established an Ethics Committee to ensure ethical values in the union.”
The highlight of the occasion was the presentation of the award of excellence to deserving members of society especially past presidents of ERA.
His Royal Majesty Amb Lawrence Agubuzo, former Chairman, South East Council of Traditional Rulers and His Royal Majesty Igwe Samuel Asadu, Chairman Enugu State Traditional Rulers Council, were among dignitaries present.
