The Federal Government has reiterated its unwavering commitment to improving cancer prevention, research, diagnosis, and access to quality care across Nigeria, as part of a broader strategy to reduce the nation’s growing cancer burden.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of the 2025 International Cancer Week (ICW) in Abuja, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, represented by Dr. Salaudeen Jimoh (mni), Director Hospital Services Department in the Ministry; emphasized that the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare is determined to strengthen the national response to cancer through research, innovation, and collaboration.
Prof. Pate noted that the International Cancer Week, which was instituted by the Ministry about two decades ago, continues to serve as a vital platform for training, knowledge exchange, and policy dialogue among oncology experts, researchers, and advocates from within and outside Nigeria.
“The objectives of this International Cancer Week, which provides a platform for interaction and training toward improving oncology practice in Nigeria, are still very much on track,” he stated.
“I want to commend those who have been part of the history of this event from inception till date. Several stakeholders have contributed in various ways to ensure that the objectives are met.”
He commended the leadership of the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (NICRAT) for sustaining the initiative and aligning its efforts with the broader national health reform agenda.
Addressing the 2025 theme, “Redefining Cancer Care: Prevention, Access, and the Future for All,” the Coordinating Minister described it as timely and comprehensive, covering the entire cancer care continuum from prevention to survivorship.
“In Nigeria, we have seen a rise in cancer cases, and we must act,” the Minister said. “We need to prioritize research, support collaboration, and ensure access to quality care. Let’s work together to advance our understanding of cancer etiology, develop context-specific solutions for Nigeria and Africa, enhance screening and treatment capabilities, and foster partnerships between researchers, clinicians, and communities.”
He further noted that cancer has become a major public health concern, with its management “abysmally catastrophic” in many cases. To address this, he said the Federal Government, in line with the National Strategic Health Development Plan II and the National Cancer Control Plan, is pursuing an integrated approach that strengthens human resources, improves infrastructure, and promotes research-driven interventions.
“The Ministry is making concerted efforts through research to increase preventive approaches, improve access to proper diagnosis and treatment, and collaborate with all relevant stakeholders to address the cancer menace in our society,” he stated.
As Professor Pate noted, “This is the beginning of the transformation in cancer care in Nigeria. Let’s continue to push forward, together, for a future where every Nigerian has access to equitable, quality cancer care.”
In his welcome address, the Director-General of the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (NICRAT), Professor Usman Malami Aliyu, highlighted the institute’s achievements in building international collaborations and strengthening local cancer research capacity.
Aliyu noted that the International Cancer Week has grown into a global convergence point for cancer research, groundbreaking science, and transformative ideas aimed at addressing Nigeria’s cancer challenges.
“The International Cancer Week remains a viable platform for global networking and awareness campaign for cancer care in Nigeria,” he said. “It fosters the adoption of innovative technologies, training of health professionals, and support for cancer survivors.”
