How the former First Lady of Ondo State turned personal loss and passion into a national movement for cancer awareness and women’s rights
A Woman of Strength and Vision
The woman in the image is Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, a distinguished Nigerian figure celebrated for her work in public health advocacy, philanthropy, and women’s empowerment. As the former First Lady of Ondo State and the widow of late Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, she has left a lasting mark on Nigeria’s socio-political landscape.
Born in Owerri, Imo State, Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu’s journey from a young student in Eastern Nigeria to a national voice for women’s rights and breast cancer awareness reflects resilience, courage, and determination.
Early Life and Education
Betty Chioma Anyanwu was born in 1953 in Emeabiam, Owerri West Local Government Area, of Imo State. From an early age, she exhibited a keen interest in education and community development — traits that would later define her public service.
She attended Archdeacon Crowther Memorial Girls’ School, Elelenwo, Port Harcourt, before earning her Bachelor of Science degree in Zoology from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) in 1977. Betty later obtained a Master’s degree in Fisheries (Aquaculture) from the University of the Philippines Visayas, under a UNDP/FAO scholarship.
Her academic excellence and passion for health sciences positioned her to become one of Nigeria’s leading voices in public health advocacy.
Career and Rise to Prominence
Before her tenure as First Lady, Betty worked with the Federal Department of Fisheries in Lagos, where she served as an aquaculturist and contributed to Nigeria’s efforts in developing sustainable fish farming practices.
However, her life took a deeply personal turn when she was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1997. Surviving the illness became a turning point — one that transformed her from a civil servant into an outspoken advocate for cancer awareness and women’s health.
Founding of BRECAN
In 1997, following her recovery, Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu founded the Breast Cancer Association of Nigeria (BRECAN), a non-governmental organisation dedicated to raising awareness, promoting early detection, and supporting survivors of breast cancer across the country.
BRECAN quickly grew into one of Nigeria’s most respected advocacy groups, holding public enlightenment campaigns, partnering with hospitals, and establishing community outreach programmes. Through her leadership, thousands of women received education, screenings, and emotional support.
Her popular slogan, “Pink is not just a colour — it’s a call to action,” became a national rallying cry for cancer awareness.
First Lady of Ondo State: Redefining the Role
When her husband, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, became Governor of Ondo State in 2017, Betty used her platform as First Lady to amplify social causes rather than pursue ceremonial functions.
She launched several initiatives, including:
BEMORE Empowered Initiative: A programme aimed at training young girls in ICT, solar technology, and entrepreneurship — equipping them with modern skills to compete globally.
Gender Equality Campaigns: Advocating for the inclusion of women in politics and leadership roles.
Health Advocacy: Continuing her mission to promote breast cancer screening and preventive healthcare.
Under her leadership, Ondo State saw a renewed emphasis on youth empowerment and women’s education, solidifying her reputation as one of the most active and influential First Ladies in Nigeria’s recent history.
Political Aspirations and Advocacy
In 2023, Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu declared her intention to contest for the Imo East Senatorial District seat under the All Progressives Congress (APC). Her candidacy represented a bold step for women in politics — a continuation of her long-standing fight for representation and inclusion.
However, she later withdrew from the race, citing irregularities within the party’s primary process. Despite stepping back, her campaign left an enduring message about fairness, integrity, and women’s participation in governance.
Personal Life and Legacy
Betty was married to Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu (SAN), a Senior Advocate of Nigeria and two-term Governor of Ondo State. The couple married in 1981 and had four children.
Her husband passed away in December 2023, after a long battle with prostate cancer. His death was deeply felt across Nigeria, but Betty remained a symbol of strength and continuity — standing firm in her advocacy even amid personal grief.
Continuing Her Mission
Today, Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu remains active in civic and health-related causes. Her work through BRECAN continues to save lives and shape public health policy in Nigeria. She frequently speaks at national and international conferences, advocating for early cancer detection, research funding, and support systems for women.
Her enduring impact is reflected in the thousands of women empowered through her initiatives, the countless families touched by her compassion, and the young girls inspired by her unwavering confidence.
References
Breast Cancer Association of Nigeria (BRECAN) Official Website
Vanguard News (2023): “Betty Akeredolu Withdraws from Imo East Senatorial Race”
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