Health Minister Salako Calls Nigerians To Support Cancer Intervention Fund to Tackle Burden

Health Minister Salako Calls Nigerians To Support Cancer Intervention Fund to Tackle  Burden
Health Minister Salako Calls Nigerians To Support Cancer Intervention Fund to Tackle Burden

 


 The Minister of State for Health, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, has called on Nigerians from all walks of life to support the newly launched N100 billion National Cancer Intervention Fund, emphasizing the collective responsibility required to combat the growing cancer burden in the country.

Speaking at a high-level event in Abuja, which marked the inauguration of the reconstituted Board of Trustees of the Nigeria Cancer Society (NCS) and several strategic cancer initiatives, Dr. Salako underscored the vital role of the private sector and non-profit organizations in driving positive societal change.

“Cancer is often a financially demanding disease,” said Salako. “We’re grateful for your support and call on all Nigerians to contribute, no matter how small, to this cause.”

 

He praised the NCS for its contributions to cancer prevention and care, including efforts to raise awareness, support survivors, and improve access to information. Salako reiterated that cancer is not a death sentence, especially when patients are properly supported and have access to timely care.

The Minister also highlighted ongoing government efforts, including the introduction of the HPV optimisation strategy aimed at preventing cervical cancer, and the establishment of cancer centres of excellence across the country.

He further encouraged the creation of a digital donation platform to make it easier for Nigerians to support the intervention fund, noting that even small contributions, when pooled, can have a significant impact.

“Families and young individuals need your support,” Salako added. “Together, we can create a better environment for cancer patients and survivors in Nigeria.”

 


Also speaking at the event, Prof. Abidemi Omonisi, President of the Nigeria Cancer Society, emphasized the urgency of bridging disparities in cancer care. He said the NCS is actively working with the government and stakeholders to mobilize resources and implement a national framework for cancer management.

 “Cancer does not discriminate. Our approach must be comprehensive and inclusive,” said Omonisi.

 

He highlighted the Society’s recent strides, including the creation of an Advisory Board, a national coordination committee, and the launch of international NCS chapters in the United Kingdom, Canada, Saudi Arabia, and Southern Africa.

Despite these efforts, Omonisi noted that the current capacity is insufficient to meet even 0.5% of Nigeria’s annual breast cancer cases, not to mention other types such as prostate and cervical cancers.

In his remarks, Dr. Gafar Alawode, Chair of the Cancer Intervention Fund Governing Council, stressed that transparency and accountability are crucial to the success of the fund.

 “We have a duty to manage this fund in a way that earns the trust of all stakeholders—particularly the private sector,” 


He announced that the fund will adopt digital tracking tools to ensure public access to all transactions and enable real-time oversight.

 “We’ll implement a direct facility financing model, where contributions go straight from donors to service providers. This ensures visibility, accountability, and impact.”

 

Alawode emphasized that the ultimate goal is to improve patient outcomes—not just hold meetings or raise money—and reaffirmed the importance of working collaboratively across government, civil society, and the private sector

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