FG to Partner Innova on Curbing Cancer Surge in Nigeria

The Nigerian Federal Government is actively seeking private sector partnerships to tackle the escalating challenge of cancer within the nation. Dr. Iziaq Salako, Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, emphasized that collaboration is crucial for achieving Nigeria's ambitious cancer control targets, which aim for a 50% reduction in the cancer burden by 2030.

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We also rely on collaborations with our partners to improve access to cancer care in Nigeria.

During a two-day Stakeholder’s Engagement and Capacity Building programme in Abuja, organized by Innova Healthcare Nigeria Ltd., Dr. Salako, represented by Dr. Uche Nwokwu, National Coordinator of the National Cancer Control Programme, stated that the government cannot confront this health crisis alone. He stressed the importance of partnerships in improving access to cancer care, including screening, diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship interventions.

"We also rely on collaborations with our partners to improve access to cancer care in Nigeria," he said. The Cancer Access Partnership Programme, a federal initiative, is already providing anti-cancer medicines at subsidized rates in over 24 hospitals nationwide, aiming to assist low-income patients. However, the minister acknowledged that challenges extend beyond treatment, citing difficulties patients face with transportation, accommodation, and feeding costs.

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The problem is not just treatment. Some patients struggle with transportation, accommodation and feeding costs, which significantly increase the burden of care.

Professor Usman Aliyu, Director-General of the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (NICRAT), echoed the sentiment, calling the private sector indispensable for strengthening healthcare systems and expanding access to life-saving technologies. He noted that nearly half of Nigeria's radiotherapy centers operate through Public-Private Partnerships (PPP). NICRAT itself has supported over 10,000 Nigerians with treatment, diagnostics, and essential medicines through its programs.

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Today’s activities give an insight into what Innova is doing. Indirectly, it is a kind of human resource development and assistance to the country in strengthening the operational capability of doctors.