NASS Pledges Increased Budget For Cancer Research, Treatment

The chairman of the House Committee on Health, Hon. Amos Magaji, has expressed the National Assembly’s commitment to increasing budgetary allocation for cancer research, treatment, and palliative care, acknowledging the devastating impact of cancer on Nigerian families.

Hon. Magaji stated this yesterday at the National Cancer Symposium 2025, organised by the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (NICRAT), in Abuja as part of the World Cancer Day commemoration.

He said, “We cannot afford to be complacent. Too many Nigerians, especially in rural areas, lack access to early detection, affordable treatment, and palliative care. This year’s budget will give serious attention to cancer treatment and research, and we will ensure that more funds are appropriated for cancer control,” he assured.

Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr Iziaq Salako, in his keynote address at the event, reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to improving cancer care, treatment, and prevention through increased funding, workforce training, and expanded access to screening and treatment facilities.

Dr Salako emphasised the urgent need for inclusive cancer solutions and called for collective efforts to tackle the rising cancer burden in the country.

He noted that over 70 percent of cancer patients in the country present at late stages, primarily due to ignorance, superstition, poverty, and inadequate screening services.

“Cancer does not discriminate; it affects people from all walks of life, rich or poor, young or old. Our shared goal is to ensure that no one is left behind in the fight against cancer,” Dr Salako stated.

Dr Salako stressed that cancer is not just a medical issue but also a social one, requiring nationwide awareness campaigns, especially in rural areas, to encourage early detection and preventive measures.

“The federal government believes that every Nigerian, regardless of their economic status or location, deserves access to quality cancer care. We are working toward universal health coverage where cancer services are available, affordable, and accessible to all,” he added.

In a step toward improving the country’s cancer workforce, Prof. Ezeome Emmanuel, President of the West African College of Surgeons, announced that the institution has signed an MoU with NICRAT to train more specialists in cancer management.

“For the first time in the country and region, we will begin training surgeons specialising in cancer care. This partnership will help develop a strong cancer workforce at all levels,” he stated.