Abuja:The Federal Government has announced plans to leverage digitalisation, artificial intelligence, telemedicine, molecular diagnostics, precision medicine, and data analytics to enhance cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. This was revealed by the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Salako, at the opening of the 2026 International Cancer Week in Abuja.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria, Dr. Salako emphasized the importance of strengthening cancer registries and employing data analytics to improve cancer control. He noted that emerging technologies are being used to address gaps in access to specialist services and clinical decision-making.
The government is committed to building resilient cancer-care systems capable of withstanding shocks, adapting, and maintaining essential services. This endeavor requires investment in infrastructure, equipment, diagnostics, medicines, human resources, and sustainable financing. Dr. Salako highlighted the need for innovations in cancer care to be affordable, appropriate, scalable, and sustainable to achieve meaningful outcomes within Nigeria’s health system.
Efforts are underway to strengthen locally relevant cancer research, ensuring evidence translates into effective policies and programs. The introduction of immunohistochemistry services under the Nigeria Cancer Access Partnership Programme, supported by Roche, is part of this initiative. Additionally, preventive and early detection measures are being expanded through eight National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (NICRAT) Preventive Oncology Clinics across the six geopolitical zones.
The Federal Government aims to make cancer care accessible regardless of income, location, or social circumstance, supported by the National Cancer Health Fund and Catastrophic Health Expenditure Fund, which offer financial protection for cancer patients and families.
Prof. Usman Aliyu, Director-General of NICRAT, stated that the institute has bolstered Nigeria’s cancer-control efforts through research, workforce development, surveillance, and improved access to care. Nearly 2,000 healthcare professionals have been trained in various aspects of cancer care across the six geopolitical zones.
NICRAT is also advancing precision oncology via the Nigeria Cancer Genome Study and has strengthened cancer surveillance through upgraded registries and recognizing cancer as a notifiable disease. The National Cancer Health Fund has aided over 2,000 indigent cancer patients, while another initiative has provided support to more than 10,000 patients.
Rep. Amos Magaji, Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Health, underscored the need for stronger financing and primary healthcare interventions to tackle the growing cancer burden, which claims approximately 1,000 lives monthly in Nigeria. He called for reduced out-of-pocket expenses and enhanced health insurance mechanisms.
Prof. Abidemi Omonisi, President of the Nigerian Cancer Society, stressed the importance of people-centered cancer control efforts and the need for technology and innovation to improve cancer prevention, detection, and treatment. He advocated for research to influence policy and practice, ensuring innovations are evidence-based and aligned with Nigeria’s health system realities.
The event also featured the launch of a Standard Operating Procedure Manual for Cancer Registries in Nigeria and the Nigerian Journal of Cancer Research. The conference will conclude on Friday.