Hussaini Ibrahim 
ABUJA, Nigeria – The Federal Government takes a major step in tackling Nigeria’s growing cancer burden with the launch of two national policy frameworks and the opening of eight oncology and preventive clinics across federal health institutions.
The Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr Iziaq Adekunle Salako, unveils the National Cancer Control Plan (2026–2030) and the Nigeria Nuclear Medicine Strategic Plan on Friday, describing them as blueprints for coordinated, equitable cancer care nationwide.
“These policies provide a clear roadmap for prevention, early detection, diagnosis and treatment,” Salako says. “They are essential to reversing avoidable cancer deaths.”
He explains that the initiatives align with broader health sector reforms aimed at reducing non-communicable diseases, noting that late-stage cancer presentation remains a major challenge in Nigeria.
The Director-General of the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment say the combined rollout of policy direction and service expansion marks a turning point. “This approach strengthens institutional capacity and improves survival outcomes,” he notes.
As part of the programme, the government declares eight oncology and preventive clinics operational, extending specialised cancer services beyond a handful of urban centres.
Health experts say decentralising oncology care will reduce delays, improve early diagnosis and ensure continuity of treatment for patients across the country.
The Ministry of Health reaffirms its commitment to working with states, development partners and the private sector to ensure effective implementation and sustainable cancer care delivery nationwide.
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