By Doris Ngwu
The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to improving cancer care and prevention in Nigeria through inclusive healthcare policies and strategic interventions.
The Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Salako stated this at a Symposium to mark World Cancer Day, in Abuja.
Dr. Salako emphasized the urgent need for collaborative efforts to address the growing burden of cancer in the country.
He explained that government had also acquired new radiotherapy machines for the six 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” he stressed.
The Minister called on all stakeholders, including healthcare professionals, researchers, corporate organizations, NGOs, religious and community leaders, and the media, to unite in the fight against cancer.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, he assured, is committed to treating healthcare as a fundamental right, ensuring that cancer prevention, treatment, and control remain a top priority” Dr. Salako added.
Earlier, 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.
In her presentation, the Minister of State for the FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud promised to partner NICRAT and other critical stakeholders to drive impactful interventions that will improve the health outcomes of FCT residents and save lives.
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
