The federal government says it is committed to improving cancer care, treatment, and prevention through initiatives like catastrophic health insurance, the National Cancer Access Program and the Cancer Trust Fund.
Speaking in Abuja at a Symposium to mark World Cancer Day, the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Salako maintained that the government had also acquired new radiotherapy machines for the 6 designated cancer centres nationwide, to ensure universal health coverage.
“I want to assure you of the continued support of the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare in our collective quest for a cancer-free Nigeria.
From the urban to the rural, from the rich to the poor, the young to the elderly, the diagnosis of cancer has a profound impact on individuals, families, and communities. Yet, in our collective efforts, we have witnessed extraordinary resilience, courage, and hope.”
The Director General of the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment, NICRAT, Prof. Usman Aliyu noted that the Institute had trained over 1,200 healthcare workers in cancer care adding that it would increase more cancer centers this year to make treatment more accessible and affordable, through the National Cancer Health Fund.
“NICRAT organized the training and retraining of healthcare workers at primary, secondary and tertiary levels on cancer prevention, treatment, research and control. We are glad to announce that NICRAT has concluded plans to conduct even more of such training in 2025. We are determined to ensure that within the shortest time possible, Nigeria has the needed workforce in all aspects of cancer care.”
The Minister of State for the FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud she would partner with NICRAT and other critical stakeholders to drive impactful interventions that will improve the health outcomes of FCT residents and save lives.
“Under the leadership of the present FCT administration, we have taken deliberate steps to strengthen the healthcare system, ensuring that residents of FCT have better access to quality services, including cancer prevention and treatment. We are not only investing in infrastructure but also expanding healthcare facilities and enhancing human resource capacity to meet the growing demands of our population.”
The Chairman of the House Committee on Health, Mr. Amos Magaji highlighted the disparities in access to cancer care, particularly in rural areas and gave the assurance that priority would be given to cancer treatment and research in the upcoming budget.
The Symposium had critical health stakeholders across the country and West Africa in attendance