Mirian Gom 
ABUJA, Nigeria – The Nigerian Cancer Society (NCS) is urging the Federal Government and key stakeholders to fully implement a national cancer survivorship framework, warning that thousands of cancer survivors continue to face financial, medical and social challenges after treatment.
The call comes as Nigeria joins the global community to mark the 2026 National Cancer Survivors’ Day, observed annually on the first Sunday of June. NCS President, Prof. Abidemi Omonisi, said survivorship must become a core component of the country’s cancer control strategy rather than being treated as the end point of treatment.
According to Omonisi, the Uyo 2026 Declaration advocates expanded health insurance coverage for cancer treatment and survivorship services, increased investment in oncology infrastructure, stronger psychosocial support systems and improved financial protection for survivors and their families.
“Survivorship must be recognised as an integral component of cancer control and not merely an outcome of treatment,” he said.
Omonisi noted that despite advances in cancer diagnosis and treatment, many survivors continue to struggle with high out-of-pocket medical expenses, inadequate insurance coverage and loss of income during and after treatment. He added that survivors frequently experience long-term health complications, including chronic pain, fatigue, infertility, lymphedema and nutritional challenges that significantly affect their quality of life.
The NCS president also highlighted growing concerns about mental health, saying many survivors’ battle anxiety, depression and fear of cancer recurrence without adequate psychosocial support.
He further warned that stigma and misinformation remain widespread in some communities, where cancer is still linked to curses, witchcraft or punishment.
“Survivors may experience rejection, diminished social support, and negative attitudes that affect their reintegration into society,” he said.
Omonisi called on governments, healthcare institutions, development partners and private organisations to prioritise survivorship care within national health planning. He also disclosed that the society recently launched the National Cancer Intervention Fund to mobilise N5 billion for cancer diagnosis and treatment, with support from the World Health Organization.
“As we commemorate National Cancer Survivors’ Day 2026, we reaffirm our commitment to ensuring that every cancer survivor in Nigeria has the opportunity not only to survive but to thrive,” he said.
About the Author
Korede Abdullah 
Oluwatobi Adu 