The Federal Government has reiterated its commitment to eliminating cervical cancer in Nigeria by 2030, in line with the World Health Organization’s (WHO) target.
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This was emphasized by the Honourable Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, when he received the Taskforce on the Elimination of Cervical Cancer, led by its Chairman, Prof. Isaac Adewole.
Dr. Salako stated that the formation of the task force in 2024 was a demonstration of the government’s resolve to eliminate preventable cancers and ensure early diagnosis of non-preventable ones.
He stressed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration prioritizes cancer prevention and universal health coverage.
According to him, “Preventive approaches to cervical cancer and other diseases are the best, considering the challenges of weak health infrastructure and inadequate funding in the sector”.
He added that the elimination strategy would focus on preventive measures at both primary and secondary healthcare levels, urging the task force to ensure screening and immunization reach the grassroots.
The Minister expressed confidence in the collaboration between the task force and the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (NICRAT), stating that it aligns with the Ministry’s sector-wide approach (SWAp) strategy.
On funding, Dr. Salako assured that the Ministry would integrate some of the task force’s activities into the 2025 budget to support its implementation.
Presenting the first-quarter report, Prof. Adewole highlighted the committee’s achievements between October and December 2024. He emphasized the importance of working with NICRAT to strengthen its mandate and enhance Nigeria’s efforts to eliminate cervical cancer.
He expressed optimism that with adequate support, Nigeria would meet the global target for cervical cancer elimination by 2030.
The report presentation was attended by the National Coordinator of the National Cervical Cancer Programme, Dr. Uchechukwu Nwokwu, and Dr. Abisola Adegoke, representing Dr. Salahudeen Jimoh, Director of Hospital Services at the Ministry.
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