The Nigerian Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to tackling non-communicable diseases (NCDs) through comprehensive measures. External regulatory bodies have been invited to evaluate the government’s programs and policies, aiming to gather valuable insights and implement actionable recommendations to enhance the effectiveness of its strategies. Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Tunji Alausa, highlighted the need for international experts to assess cancer control and prevention initiatives and help identify areas for focus. The government is committed to using expert feedback to refine healthcare strategies, backed by strong political will and prioritization of healthcare under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
This collaboration with international experts will ensure that the government’s efforts in cancer control and prevention are aligned with global best practices, ultimately leading to improved healthcare outcomes for the Nigerian population. The government is dedicated to fostering partnerships with key stakeholders to drive positive change in the healthcare sector.
Despite the pressing challenges in Nigeria’s cancer care system, such as the limited availability of critical diagnostic and treatment infrastructure, the government cannot afford to be anything but proactive in addressing the issue. President Tinubu has made healthcare a national priority, announcing the highest budgetary allocation for the sector in the country’s history. As part of these efforts, the government is establishing six new cancer centers and diagnostic facilities across geopolitical zones, strengthening cancer care programs in secondary and tertiary hospitals, and implementing preventive measures, including HPV vaccination and advocacy to raise awareness about cancer care.
