The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to eliminating cervical cancer by 2030, aligning with the World Health Organization’s target.
This commitment reflects President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s priority of eliminating preventable cancers and ensuring early diagnosis of those that are not.
Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, made this known while receiving the Task Force on the Elimination of Cervical Cancer, led by its Chairman, Prof. Isaac Adewole, on Tuesday in Abuja.
Dr. Salako emphasized that the establishment of the Task Force in 2024 demonstrates the government’s dedication to tackling cervical cancer. He noted that this aligns with the President’s vision of achieving universal health coverage for all Nigerians.
He reiterated the importance of early diagnosis and prevention, stressing that preventive measures are crucial given Nigeria’s weak health infrastructure and limited funding.
“A preventive approach to cervical cancer and other diseases is the best strategy considering our health system’s challenges. Prevention is not only cheaper but also more effective than treatment,” Dr. Salako said.
“Elimination means prioritizing prevention at primary and secondary healthcare levels, and we must continue to push for this.”
The Minister urged the Task Force to ensure widespread screening and immunization, particularly at the grassroots level.
He also expressed optimism about the collaboration between the Task Force and the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (NICRAT), stating that their partnership would support President Tinubu’s health sector agenda. He highlighted the Ministry’s sector-wide approach (SWAp) strategy to ensure coordinated efforts.
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Regarding funding, Dr. Salako assured that the Ministry would incorporate some Task Force activities into the 2025 budget.
Presenting the Task Force’s first-quarter report, Prof. Adewole stated that the committee comprises 16 distinguished Nigerians dedicated to eliminating cervical cancer.
He highlighted key activities undertaken between October and December 2024, emphasizing the importance of collaboration with NICRAT to enhance its functionality and achieve its mandate.
Prof. Adewole expressed confidence that with adequate support, Nigeria would align with the global agenda to eliminate cervical cancer by 2030.
The report presentation was witnessed by the National Coordinator of the National Cervical Cancer Program, Dr. Uchechukwu Nwokwu, alongside Dr. Abisola Adegoke (mni), representing Dr. Salahudeen Jimoh (mni), Director of Hospital Services at the Ministry.
