Mirian Gom 
PORT HARCOURT, Nigeria – The Association of Radiation Oncologists of Nigeria (ARCON) has urged the federal government to establish more cancer treatment centres to address the rising prevalence of the disease.
Speaking at ARCON’s 8th Annual Scientific Conference and General Meetings on Saturday, President Nwamaka Lasebikan said the expansion would improve access to care and reduce cancer-related deaths nationwide.
“We must rethink cancer in Nigeria. Our goal is to build a resilient, inclusive, and people-focused oncology ecosystem,” Ms Lasebikan said.
She also called for increased funding to strengthen the Cancer Health Fund (CHF), which currently covers breast, cervical, and prostate cancers but lacks consistency and reach.
“The government must re-engineer the funding model and invest in hospitals so patients can access care without financial distress. Cancer treatment is expensive globally, and Nigeria must do more,” she added.
The ARCON president highlighted the need to integrate science, policy, economics, and enterprise in building a sustainable cancer response. She also urged greater attention to post-treatment care and mental health support for survivors.
Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, Olusegun Biyi-Olutunde, commended existing government initiatives but said they remain inadequate.
“We see patients’ trauma firsthand. Every state should have a radiotherapy centre,” he noted.
The five-day conference featured plenary sessions on artificial intelligence in oncology, cancer economics, and climate change impacts on treatment, bringing together experts, survivors, and advocates.
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