The Endometriosis Support Group Nigeria, led by Dr. Abayomi Ajayi of Nordica Fertility Centre, is 10 – and to celebrate the milestone, the advocacy group had a breakfast meeting on Thursday, March 12, 2015 at The Food For Sun, Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos. The breakfast meeting which had the representatives of the Minister of Health, Diamond Bank, one of their major supporters, Nordica Fertility Centre, among many others in attendance, was followed two days later by a March For Endometriosis. The walk which started at the City Mall, Onikan, Lagos saw the participants going all the way to The Lagoon Restaurant, Ozumba Mbadiwe Road, Victoria Island, Lagos. The early morning exercise and awareness programme offered free consultation opportunities to some of those present. In the words of Dr. Ajayi: “Now, people can pronounce the name (Endometriosis) unlike 10 years ago when we started”.
He described the medical challenge which hasn’t got a permanent cure yet as ‘cruel and crippling’. Adding that they intend taking the gospel of endometriosis round the country to create more awareness for it. The renowned IVF expert also didn’t forget to salute ex-beauty queen, Nike Oshinowo, for her immense support. In his words: “Nike has been in the forefront of creating awareness for this – and she’s not ashamed to talk about it” Ms. Oshinowo is battling endometriosis and recently had to settle for a surrogate mum for her twins, all because of that.
The ESGN (Endometriosis Support Group Nigeria) is a non-governmental organization with the sole aim of assisting women, both young and old, who are challenged with the endometriosis condition. It has been in the country, spreading the message, rendering assistance to victims and also counseling them, for 10 years now.