As part of efforts to combat the rising burden of cancer in Nigeria, the Nigerian Cancer Society (NCS) is set to launch a ₦10 billion Cancer Intervention Fund in February 2025.
This initiative aims to address the critical funding gaps in cancer care, providing much-needed financial support to patients across the country.
The intervention fund, which will be raised through contributions from private sector players, philanthropists, and international donors, is a response to the limited allocation of ₦150 million for the Cancer Health Fund in the 2025 national budget.
NCS President, Prof. Abidemi Omonisi, highlighted the inadequacy of this allocation, noting that the average cost of cancer treatment in the country is around ₦20 million per patient.
“We are launching this fund to ensure that no cancer patient in Nigeria is left without access to life-saving treatment,” Omonisi said during a media workshop in Abuja. The workshop, focused on Information Dissemination about HPV Vaccine Uptake in Nigeria, was organised by the NCS for the Association of Nigerian Health Journalists (ANHeJ).
He said that the Cancer Intervention Fund will be managed by a board of experts, including health financing specialists and legal professionals, ensuring transparency and efficiency in its operations.
The fund is not only intended to provide direct financial assistance to cancer patients but also to offer a sustainable solution to the growing pressure on Nigeria’s healthcare system, Prof Omonisi added.
In addition to the fund, the NCS has outlined several strategic goals for 2025, including expanding global partnerships, enhancing cancer awareness campaigns, and advocating for improved healthcare infrastructure.
One of the Society’s major projects is the establishment of Nigeria’s first liver transplant centre in collaboration with global partners like the Mayo Clinic. This centre will focus on treating end-stage liver diseases associated with cancer.
Omonisi also revealed plans to leverage the leadership of the NCS President-elect at the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) to attract global resources and policy support for Nigeria’s cancer care programs.
He said the society aims to harness the energy of young Nigerians through a new youth advocacy group, promoting cancer awareness and prevention, especially on social media platforms.
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