The Fundraising event of the International Cancer Centre Abuja, took place at the International Conference Centre, on the 18th of July 2009.
The event which commenced at about 11 am was graced by The President and First Lady, the Vice President and His wife, two Former Presidents, Governors, Governors wives and Ex Governors. Also in attendance were Heads of Government Ministries and Parastatals, Captains of Industry, Highly placed individuals and members of the Diplomatic Corps.

These august visitors were professionally received and attended to by members of the Planning Committee and courteous, well seasoned hostesses who were on hand throughout the event to ensure the comfort of guests.

The security network and protocol arrangements were adequate and commensurate to the magnitude of the event and the high caliber of guests expected.

The choice of Chief Olusegun Obasanjo as the Chairman of the occasion was indeed an advantage. He brought his charisma, intelligence and humour to bear on the event and the results of his deft management of the Fundraising exercise were immeasurable.

Worthy of mention is the performance of the comperes, Chief Ikenna Ndaguba and Mrs. Dayo Benjamin. They were straight to the point and ensured that the event ended in good time.

The intricate adornment of the event venue created the right ambience and comfort for donors to give their best.

The lighting and sound systems were smooth and glitch-free, and the multi-media presentation equally gave the needed support to the Fundraising.

A well scripted production, performed by a seasoned drama troupe added life to the event and left guests both humoured and more enlightened about the startling realities of the Cancer scourge in our society.
The event was adequately covered by over thirty media houses and aired live on the Nigerian Television Authority.

On the whole, the choice of The International Conference Center was very apt as its central location made for efficient vehicular movement, parking and traffic control, in and around the event venue.

GROUND BREAKING
The Groundbreaking took place immediately after the Fundraising at the site of the Centre, along the airport road, Abuja. It started at about 3pm with a rendition of the National anthem, performed by the Brigade of Guards.

The event was direct and to the point with the actual ground breaking Ceremony taking place in a matter of minutes after the arrival of the first couple. The First Lady, assisted by the President, performed the Groundbreaking and the unveiling of the plaque for the proposed building of the International Cancer Centre in Abuja.

The Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Wives of Serving Governors and other dignitaries were present to grace the occasion along with other dignitaries.

Like the fundraising, the event was given generous coverage by several News and Print Media Houses.

In summary, the Fundraising and Groundbreaking events were successful, seamless and hitch-free. A few minor challenges which came up during the cause of the event were managed professionally.