Polaris Bank Rolls out free screening

In recognition of World Cancer Day on February 4, 2026, Polaris Bank has reinforced its focus on public health and social responsibility with the rollout of a nationwide free breast cancer screening programme. The initiative is being implemented in collaboration with its non-governmental organisation partner, Care Organisation and Public Enlightenment (C.O.P.E), as part of the bank’s broader commitment to improving access to preventive healthcare.

The screening campaign is aimed at increasing awareness about breast cancer, encouraging early detection, and promoting preventive health practices. According to the bank, improving access to essential health services remains central to strengthening individual wellbeing and supporting long-term economic productivity within communities.

As part of its World Cancer Day activities this year, Polaris Bank will offer free, comprehensive breast cancer screening to 100 women across Nigeria. In addition, the bank is continuing its support for an existing free prostate cancer screening programme, which targets 250 men aged 40 years and above. This male-focused screening initiative had been previously sponsored by the bank and remains ongoing.

The prostate cancer screenings are being conducted at the Men’s Clinic located at 18 Commercial Avenue, Sabo, Yaba, Lagos. The facility provides professional medical services in a structured environment designed to support early detection and preventive care for male participants.

Both health interventions align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Specifically, the initiatives support SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) by expanding access to early screening and preventive healthcare services. They also advance SDG 5 (Gender Equality) through targeted attention to women’s health needs, while reinforcing SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) through collaboration with civil society organisations such as C.O.P.E to deliver grassroots impact.

Beyond physical screenings, Polaris Bank plans to deploy educational resources and community outreach activities to deepen public understanding of cancer prevention. These efforts will include awareness campaigns across digital platforms, distribution of informational materials, and community engagement sessions focused on early detection, healthy lifestyle choices, and the importance of routine medical check-ups.

Commenting on the initiative, the Group Head of Brand Management and Corporate Communications at Polaris Bank, Rasheed Bolarinwa, highlighted the importance of early diagnosis in improving cancer survival outcomes. He noted that removing financial barriers to screening and bringing services closer to communities are critical steps toward empowering individuals to take control of their health. According to him, access to timely information and screening can significantly increase the chances of effective treatment and recovery.

The main breast cancer screening event will be held on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at the C.O.P.E Centre located at 39B Adeniyi Jones Avenue, Ikeja, Lagos. The programme will run from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and will be delivered by trained healthcare professionals and volunteers. Participants will receive not only screening services but also guidance on cancer prevention, breast self-examination techniques, and recommended follow-up care.

Participation in the free breast cancer screening programme is subject to specific eligibility criteria. Applicants must be women and must hold an active Polaris Bank account. Pre-registration is mandatory, and selection will be based on early and confirmed submissions. Interested and eligible participants are encouraged to register through the official portal at bit.ly/BCS2026.

Although the breast cancer screening is designed for women, Polaris Bank has encouraged men to play an active role in supporting the health of their families by motivating their wives, daughters, sisters, and other female relatives to register and participate. At the same time, men aged 40 years and above are invited to benefit from the ongoing free prostate cancer screening programme at the Men’s Clinic in Sabo, Yaba.

Through these initiatives, Polaris Bank says it remains committed to fostering healthier communities by supporting preventive healthcare, promoting awareness, and building partnerships that deliver lasting social impact across Nigeria.