Nigeria’s Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Iziaq Adekunle, has called for intensified collaboration among African countries to address the continent’s growing cancer burden. He made the remarks at the Africa Oncology Collaboration and Innovation Forum 2025 in Luxor, Egypt.
The forum, organised by the Africa Oncology Collaboration and Innovation Forum Planning Committee in partnership with Egyptian oncology institutions and supported by African networks and development partners, aims to strengthen cross-border partnerships in cancer care.
Adekunle cited alarming statistics from GLOBOCAN, noting that Africa recorded 1.18 million new cancer cases and 763,843 deaths in 2022. Nigeria, Egypt, and South Africa account for the highest number of cases, with Nigeria alone contributing over 10.5% of Africa’s total cancer burden.
He attributed the rising incidence to aging populations, lifestyle factors, late diagnosis, weak early detection, and gaps in treatment infrastructure.
The minister highlighted Nigeria’s recent reforms, including:
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Increased budget allocations for cancer prevention and care
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Establishment of six new cancer centres of excellence
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Procurement of specialised oncology equipment
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Development of the National Nuclear Medicine Policy and Strategic Plan
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Preparation of the National Cancer Control Plan 2026–2030
These initiatives align with global frameworks, including the WHO Global Breast Cancer Initiative, Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer, and UICC Global Cancer Declaration.
Adekunle also reported progress in prevention and screening efforts:
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Nearly 15 million girls aged 9–14 vaccinated against HPV since 2023
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The National Task Force on Cervical Cancer Elimination aims to screen 50% of eligible women and treat precancerous lesions by 2027
To reduce financial barriers, Nigeria is implementing a cancer-focused health insurance scheme, a National Cancer Health Fund, and supporting private sector-led interventions.
The minister urged African nations to embrace “Healthcare Pan-Africanism,” strengthening resource-sharing, collaborative research, and unified strategies. He pledged Nigeria’s support for the emerging Africa Oncology Network and encouraged involvement from policymakers, healthcare providers, the pharmaceutical industry, entrepreneurs, and technology firms, with a focus on value-based care and equity.
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