Nigeria Proposes N302.3 Billion National Cancer Institute to Combat Medical Tourism

Nigeria is set to construct a National Cancer Institute, a significant project approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu with an estimated cost of N302.3 billion (approximately $200 million USD). The initiative aims to bolster cancer treatment capabilities within the country and curb the substantial foreign exchange Nigeria currently spends on medical tourism for cancer care abroad.

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The construction of a National Cancer Institute will no doubt enhance treatment of cancer and save Nigeria huge foreign exchange spent on treatment abroad.

Professor Usman Malami Aliyu, Director General of the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (NICRAT), commended the president's approval, viewing it as a clear demonstration of the government's commitment to the health and well-being of Nigerians. He described the project as a bold intervention designed to improve the living standards of citizens across all levels.

Aliyu expressed confidence that the institute will position Nigeria as a leading center for advanced cancer care and research, not only in Africa but globally. The facility is intended to enhance cancer research, treatment, innovation, and capacity building, offering world-class cancer services. This move, alongside the recent upgrading of cancer centers in Katsina, Benin, and Enugu, underscores the government's dedication to improving healthcare for Nigerians.

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This project, will no doubt, make Nigeria the centre of attraction in terms of sophisticated cancer care and research in Africa and the world at large.

Historically, cancer diagnosis and treatment have been a significant challenge in Nigeria due to a lack of accessible and affordable facilities. This has often led to late detection and limited treatment options for patients. The establishment of NICRAT three years ago marked a step forward, but the new National Cancer Institute, equipped with state-of-the-art technology, is expected to provide greater visibility and dignity for Nigeria in the international community regarding cancer care and research. The project is slated for completion within 36 months and is anticipated to drastically reduce medical tourism, saving millions of dollars lost annually to overseas treatment.

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Over the years, cancer has remained a nightmare to most Nigerians as successive governments could not demonstrate capacity to address issues around the dearth of cancer diagnosis, treatment and research in the country.