The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to cancer prevention, research, diagnosis, and access to quality care in Nigeria, stressing that stronger collaboration and innovation are key to reducing the nation’s growing cancer burden.
The declaration was made during the opening of the 2025 International Cancer Week, ICW, in Abuja by the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, represented by Dr. Salaudeen Jimoh.
Prof. Pate described the event, now in its two-decade history, as a vital platform for knowledge exchange, training, and policy dialogue among oncology experts and advocates. This year’s theme, “Redefining Cancer Care: Prevention, Access, and the Future for All,” covers the full continuum of cancer care from prevention to survivorship.
He stressed the need for research-driven solutions, improved screening, access to treatment, and partnerships between researchers, clinicians, and communities. “This is the beginning of the transformation in cancer care in Nigeria. Let’s continue to push forward so every Nigerian has access to equitable, quality care,” he said.
Speaking at the event, Professor Usman Malami Aliyu, Director-General of the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (NICRAT), highlighted NICRAT’s achievements in international collaborations and local research capacity-building.
He announced initiatives such as the Nigerian Cancer Genome Study and the SINCAD program, which provides ₦10 million seed grants to early-career cancer researchers across the country.
Dr. Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu, President-elect of the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC), urged intensified awareness and early detection campaigns. She emphasized the need for African inclusion in global cancer research and called for more investments in public education and screening.
The ICW 2025 gathered policymakers, researchers, clinicians, advocates, and cancer survivors, reinforcing the Federal Government’s push for stronger research, improved access to care, and greater public awareness as part of Presidedent Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Health Agenda.
