The Federal Government has launched a groundbreaking cost-sharing scheme with the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) to make cancer treatment more affordable for low-income patients. The initiative offers subsidies of up to N400,000 for radiotherapy, a type of cancer treatment that uses ionizing radiation to kill cancerous cells. This move is part of the government’s efforts to expand access to cancer care and tackle non-communicable diseases in Nigeria.
The government has also commissioned three ultra-modern oncology centers in Katsina, Nsukka, and Benin, which are equipped with advanced diagnostic and radiotherapy technology. These centers are expected to serve over 2,000 cancer patients annually and deliver diagnostic services to more than 350,000 Nigerians across the regions. The centers will also serve as training hubs for over 500 oncology clinicians over the next three years through a public-private partnership with the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority and its healthcare arm, MedServe.
The Federal Government plans to establish seven more oncology centers in strategic locations, including Maiduguri, Port Harcourt, Ilorin, and Yola, which are scheduled for inauguration on World Cancer Day 2026. This initiative is part of a bold national vision to establish 10 oncology centers by 2026 under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which prioritizes affordable, equitable, and accessible healthcare for all. The government aims to improve cancer care services and make them more accessible to Nigerians, particularly those in low-income brackets.
The cost-sharing scheme and the establishment of new oncology centers are expected to significantly reduce the financial burden of cancer care on patients and improve health outcomes. Cancer remains one of the leading causes of death globally, and Nigeria is not immune to this challenge. Late diagnosis and high treatment costs continue to worsen outcomes for thousands of patients, especially in underserved regions. The government’s efforts to address these challenges are commendable and have the potential to make a significant impact on the lives of many Nigerians.
The partnership between the government and private sector stakeholders is crucial in driving this initiative forward. For instance, AstraZeneca has partnered with the Federal Government to enhance cancer care in Nigeria through increased access to innovative medicines and capacity building for healthcare professionals. This collaboration aims to improve early detection, diagnosis, and treatment of cancer, ultimately reducing the burden of the disease on Nigerian patients.
