Abuja: The Federal Government has operationalised oncology-preventive clinics in eight tertiary hospitals, strengthening Nigeria’s cancer prevention, screening, and early-detection capacity nationwide. Minister of State for Health, Dr. Iziaq Salako, confirmed this at the 2026 World Cancer Day commemoration.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the event, themed ‘United by Unique,’ emphasized the collective responsibility among government, institutions, and citizens in tackling Nigeria’s growing cancer burden. Salako stated that Nigeria has made significant progress in cancer care and prevention through investments in infrastructure, policy reforms, and the development of specialized manpower.
The newly activated clinics aim to expand access to early screening services, thereby reducing late cancer presentation and mortality. The facilities include Federal Medical Centre Abuja, Federal Medical Centre, Ebute-Metta in Lagos, and several university teaching hospitals across the country. Salako urged Nigerians to embrace routine screening and early presentation at health facilities when symptoms first appear, emphasizing that prevention is both better and cheaper.
The National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (NICRAT) has provided mammogram machines to support early breast-cancer detection at selected centers. Additionally, the Nigerian Nuclear Medicine Strategic Plan was launched to bolster diagnostic and therapeutic cancer services. Salako also unveiled the National Cancer Control Plan for 2026-2030, which aligns with the National Health Act 2014 and international frameworks on cancer control.
Salako highlighted that integrating cancer screening into routine healthcare is critical for reducing avoidable deaths. The new plan prioritizes early detection and aims to establish a functional national cancer screening program. Meanwhile, a more sustainable financing approach is being introduced with the Catastrophic Health Insurance scheme expected to be operational before the end of 2026.
The minister confirmed ongoing investments in cancer equipment and specialized treatment facilities nationwide, with plans to procure 35 radiotherapy machines between 2026 and 2028. This initiative aims to close existing treatment gaps and reduce patient travel abroad.
The African Oncology Collaborative Network is set to be unveiled before the third quarter of 2026 to strengthen continent-wide collaboration on cancer research and care. Salako commended federal agencies for their progress in vaccination-based cancer prevention programs.
Director-General of NICRAT, Prof. Usman Aliyu, emphasized that cancer remains a major public-health challenge in Nigeria. He noted the barriers faced by many Nigerians in accessing prevention, early detection, treatment, and palliative care services. NICRAT is focused on strengthening research capacity to generate robust local evidence for effective national cancer-control policies.
President of the Nigerian Cancer Society, Prof. Abidemi Omonisi, commended government efforts but appealed for stronger financial support to ease high chemotherapy and treatment costs. Chairman of the Nigerian Medical Association, Prof. Bala Audu, reaffirmed doctors’ commitment to cancer prevention and care, praising improvements in infrastructure and upgraded cancer centers across the country.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that World Cancer Day is marked annually to raise awareness globally and promote education and coordinated action against the growing burden of cancer worldwide.