The Federal Government has intensified implementation of the National Cancer Control Plan (NCCP) 2026–2030, setting a target to reduce Nigeria’s cancer burden by 30 per cent by 2030 while calling for stronger collaboration among African countries to improve cancer prevention, research and treatment.
The Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, disclosed this on Friday at the African Organisation for Research and Training in Cancer (AORTIC) Best of ASCO Africa 2026 conference in Abuja.
Speaking at the regional scientific meeting, which showcases the latest advances in cancer treatment presented at the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Annual Meeting, Salako said the renewed focus on cancer control reflects the Tinubu administration’s commitment to tackling non-communicable diseases under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
He revealed that the National Cancer Control Plan 2026–2030 provides a comprehensive roadmap for strengthening cancer prevention, early detection, diagnosis, treatment, survivorship, research, workforce development, data systems, artificial intelligence, partnerships and resource mobilisation.
“The National Cancer Control Plan 2026–2030 is our strategic roadmap to reduce Nigeria’s cancer burden by 30 per cent by 2030 through strengthened prevention, early detection, quality treatment, research and partnerships,” Salako said.
The minister announced that the Federal Government has inaugurated a multi-sectoral National Technical Working Group comprising clinicians, researchers, cancer survivors, civil society organisations, development partners and private sector representatives to coordinate implementation of the plan.
According to him, the group will adopt an implementation science approach to ensure policies are translated into measurable improvements in cancer care and patient outcomes.
Salako expressed concern over the rising burden of cancer across Africa, noting that the continent recorded more than 1.18 million new cancer cases and over 721,000 cancer-related deaths in 2024.
“Cancer now claims more lives in Africa than AIDS, malaria and tuberculosis combined. Nigeria alone accounts for about 10.5 per cent of Africa’s cancer burden, making it one of the three most affected countries on the continent,” he said.
He challenged African researchers and oncology professionals to generate evidence from African populations rather than relying solely on international studies, stressing that locally generated research is essential to developing effective cancer interventions.
The minister also advocated what he described as “Cancer Care Pan-Africanism,” urging African nations to strengthen collaboration in cancer research, innovation, workforce development and access to treatment.
“The time has come for healthcare to occupy a central place in Pan-African cooperation. We must work together to advance cancer research, innovation, education and access to quality care across Africa,” he said.
Salako commended the African Organisation for Research and Training in Cancer (AORTIC), the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) and other partners for organising the conference, describing it as an important platform for adapting global cancer breakthroughs to African health systems.
He reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to leading efforts in cancer education, research, advocacy and strategic partnerships aimed at reducing cancer incidence and mortality while strengthening resilient cancer care systems across the continent.