The Federal Government said it is targeting a 50 per cent reduction in Nigeria’s cancer burden by 2030 through a combination of prevention, early detection, and improved access to treatment
kaNo —
The Federal Government has launched a Social Determinants of Health (SDoH) Fund for Cancer Patients, committing an initial N50 million to support vulnerable Nigerians struggling with non-medical challenges that hinder access to treatment.
The initiative was officially flagged off in Abuja on Wednesday by the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Iziaq Salako, who described the fund as a critical intervention aimed at addressing hidden but significant barriers to cancer care.
According to the minister, the fund is designed to provide timely and equitable financial support to patients grappling with costs related to direct medical treatment, such as transportation, accommodation, feeding, and other social needs.
“These challenges contribute significantly to delayed treatment, poor adherence to care, and unfavourable health outcomes among cancer patients, particularly those from low-income and marginalised communities,” Salako said.
He noted that while government and partners have made strides in subsidising chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and other medical services, many patients still struggle to initiate or complete treatment due to the burden of ancillary expenses.
“Many cancer patients still find it difficult to initiate and complete treatment because they cannot afford feeding, transportation, and accommodation, especially in urban centres where specialised services are located,” he added.
Over 200 Patients Verified For Support
Salako disclosed that the response to the initiative has been encouraging, with over 600 cancer patients already applying for support
Of these, more than 200 have been verified through a rigorous process involving medical directors and attending physicians at treatment centres.
Each verified beneficiary is expected to receive a minimum of N100,000 to help offset non-medical expenses associated with their treatment journey.
“The disbursement will be made directly to verified beneficiaries to ensure that support reaches those who need it most and to address some of the barriers to accessing cancer care,” the minister explained.
He added that the Federal Ministry of Health’s initial N50 million contribution is intended not only to provide immediate relief but also to demonstrate government commitment and encourage broader participation from other stakeholders.
A Broader Cancer Control Strategy
The SDoH Fund emerged from recommendations by the National Cancer Control Plan Technical Working Group (TWG), which was constituted following the launch of Nigeria’s National Cancer Control Plan 2026–2030.
Salako commended members of the TWG, led by Professor Folakemi Odedina, Global Director of Oncology at the Mayo Clinic in the United States, for their dedication to improving cancer care in Nigeria. He also acknowledged their personal financial contributions toward the fund.
He explained that the initiative complements several existing interventions, including the Cancer Health Fund, Cancer Access Partnership, Vulnerable Group Fund, and the National Cancer Society Cancer Intervention Fund.
According to him, the programme aligns with the ministry’s expanded mandate, which now incorporates social welfare considerations into healthcare delivery.
“This initiative strengthens financial protection for vulnerable cancer patients and ensures a more holistic approach to care,” Salako said.
Call for Private Sector Support
Beyond government funding, the minister emphasised the need for contributions from corporate organisations, philanthropists, and individuals to sustain and expand the initiative.
He stressed that transparency and accountability would be central to the management of the fund, assuring stakeholders that robust mechanisms are in place to track disbursement and ensure that resources reach intended beneficiaries.
“This initiative is designed to mobilise private funds to bridge gaps in patient care and complement government health budgets,” he said.
Health experts have long argued that addressing social determinants of health is essential to improving outcomes in diseases like cancer, where treatment often requires prolonged and consistent care.
The unveiling of the fund coincides with the 2026 Cancer Survivors Month, observed globally every June to celebrate individuals living with and beyond cancer while highlighting the challenges they face.
A key highlight of the month is National Cancer Survivors Day, marked this year on June 7.
The observance focuses on celebrating resilience and raising awareness about persistent barriers to quality care, including financial hardship and limited access to treatment.
Salako said the timing of the initiative reflects the Federal Government’s solidarity with cancer survivors and its commitment to improving outcomes for patients across the country.
He commended survivors for their advocacy and support networks, which continue to provide hope and guidance to those newly diagnosed.
Government Target Reduction in Cancer Burden
Reaffirming the government’s commitment, Salako said efforts are underway to expand cancer prevention and control services nationwide.
These include free screening programmes, improved treatment infrastructure, and subsidies for chemotherapy and radiotherapy.
He revealed that the government is targeting a 50 per cent reduction in Nigeria’s cancer burden by 2030 through a combination of prevention, early detection, and improved access to treatment.
“To fellow Nigerians battling cancer, I want to assure you that this administration is committed to ensuring that a cancer diagnosis does not become a death sentence,” he said.
Rising Cancer Burden in Nigeria
Cancer remains a major public health challenge in Nigeria, characterised by the uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells in the body. If not detected early, the disease can spread to other organs and become life-threatening.
Experts say many patients in Nigeria are diagnosed at advanced stages due to low awareness, inadequate screening, and limited access to specialised treatment facilities.
