The President and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Cancer Society, Professor Abidemi Omonisi, has called for urgent expansion of cancer prevention, screening and treatment services across Nigeria, particularly in rural communities and Internally Displaced Persons camps. Speaking at the 2026 World Cancer Day Regional Mega Rally for the South-South Zone in Port Harcourt, he stressed that many cancers are preventable and treatable if detected early, but lamented that late presentation, high out-of-pocket costs and limited insurance coverage continue to worsen outcomes.
Professor Omonisi said hosting the rally in Rivers State was deliberate, noting that cancer control must not be concentrated in Abuja and Lagos alone. He commended the state government for strengthening health infrastructure, especially through the Peter Odili Cardiovascular and Cancer Centre, describing it as a symbol of hope for families in the region, and added that the ultra-modern facility must be fully utilised for effective cancer treatment and management.
The NCS President acknowledged progress made at the national level, including the establishment of the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment, which he described as the mother agency for cancer research and treatment in Nigeria. He applauded the Federal Government for birthing NICRAT, noting that research remains key to finding more effective and locally relevant ways of managing the disease.
He further noted that the Federal Ministry of Health has brought civil society organisations and cancer stakeholders under one umbrella to strengthen collaboration and coordination, describing the initiative as a positive step toward building a unified national response to cancer control.
In an interview, Professor Omonisi identified cervical, breast and prostate cancers as the three most prevalent cancers in Nigeria among others. He maintained that increasing early diagnosis and screening across the country would significantly reduce the burden of cancer-related deaths, emphasizing that cancer is not a death sentence if detected and treated early.
He also highlighted the growing impact of cancer awareness walks and public sensitization campaigns across the country, saying they are gradually leading the way in cancer education. According to him, more Nigerians are now aware of the importance of early presentation, screening and timely medical intervention.
Professor Omonisi urged federal and state governments, development partners and the private sector to invest more in radiotherapy expansion, primary healthcare integration and retention of oncology specialists. He added that improved remuneration for health workers and stronger multidisciplinary collaboration are critical to delivering quality cancer care nationwide.
Addressing survivors, caregivers and young Nigerians, the NCS President encouraged healthy lifestyles, vaccination and open conversations to combat stigma and misinformation. He expressed appreciation to the Government and people of Rivers State, healthcare professionals and partners for supporting the rally, urging Nigerians to move beyond awareness to sustained action toward equity, access and impact in cancer care.

Also speaking at the sensitisation and free screening exercise, the Permanent Secretary, Rivers State Ministry of Health, Prof. Justina Jumbo, said cancer is a chronic disease that can be effectively treated if detected early. She explained that it occurs when certain cells multiply uncontrollably and can affect anyone, regardless of age, sex, or race, noting that the centre also provides cardiovascular treatment services.
Prof. Jumbo said the establishment of the Dr Peter Odili cancer and cardiovascular Hospital by the state government would reduce medical tourism, as residents previously travelled to other states and abroad for diagnosis and treatment. She urged the public to take advantage of the facility by getting screened and supporting ongoing awareness efforts.