The federal government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening cancer prevention and improving access to care through enhanced collaboration among health agencies and sustained investment in research and innovation.

This was highlighted during the 2025 International Cancer Week (ICW) held in Abuja, co-organized by the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare and the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (NICRAT). The event, themed “Redefining the Future of Cancer: Prevention, Access and Equity for All,” brought together stakeholders from within and outside the country.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, the Minister of State for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr. Yusuf Tanko Sununu, described cancer as a major public health challenge in Nigeria, and called for stronger advocacy, funding, and coordination among key institutions.

He assured that the government would continue engaging the National Assembly and relevant agencies to sustain budgetary provisions for cancer research and care, stressing that prevention and drug security were as important as treatment.

“Cancer care is a huge financial burden not only on individuals but also on the government. We must work together to make prevention and access to quality care a national priority,” Sununu said.

Also speaking, the Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, said the FCT Administration was promoting health equity through awareness campaigns and early-detection programmes.

The Director-General of NICRAT, Prof. Usman Malami Aliyu, explained that the conference was aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s capacity for cancer research and care through international partnerships and innovation.

He disclosed that NICRAT had established research collaborations with global cancer centres, including Mayo Clinic, Johns Hopkins University, and Virginia Commonwealth University, while supporting early-career researchers and equipping teaching hospitals across the country.

The Chairman of the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), Senator Ibrahim Oloriegbe, said the agency was working to expand insurance coverage to make cancer care more affordable for Nigerians. (Daily Trust)