By Edward Samuel, Abuja
The Nigerian Cancer Society (NCS) has joined the global community to commemorate the 2025 National Cancer Survivors Day with bold initiatives and a renewed commitment to improving the quality of life for cancer survivors across the country.
In a statement issued by the President and CEO, Dr. Abidemi Omonisi, the NCS paid tribute to cancer survivors, their families, and caregivers, acknowledging their courage and resilience.
“We must celebrate those who have successfully gone through cancer diagnosis and treatment,” Dr. Omonisi said, noting that cancer survivorship means helping individuals live full and healthy lives after diagnosis.
Recognising survivors as critical partners in the fight against cancer, the Society has made survivorship a central pillar of its strategic agenda. As part of this effort, NCS has integrated survivors into its governance structure, appointing Ms. Tinu Lawal and Ms. Chioma Ikejiani to the Governing Council of the newly established National Cancer Intervention Fund (NCS NCIF).
The fund, aimed at raising ₦100 billion over the next five years, is designed to support survivors and boost cancer research.
Dr. Gafar Alawode, a global health financing expert, has been named Chairman of the Governing Council, while Dr. Uchechukwu Nwokwu will serve as Vice-Chairman. The fund will operate independently and is scheduled for official launch in July 2025.
In addition to the fund, the NCS is engaging the Federal Government on the high cost and limited availability of essential cancer drugs. The Society is also working closely with the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (NICRAT) on the disbursement of the National Cancer Health Fund (NCHF), which currently supports treatment for only four types of cancer.
To further elevate survivor advocacy, the Society is establishing the Nigerian Coalition for Cancer Survivors (NCCS), a new arm of the NCS. The coalition will be unveiled during a special webinar on June 2, 2025, where its interim leadership will also be announced.
As part of efforts to address unemployment among cancer survivors, the Society plans to launch a campaign titled “Operation Employ Cancer Survivors”. Additionally, plans are underway to constitute a new Board of Trustees that will include survivors.
Dr. Omonisi expressed gratitude to survivor-led organisations such as the Atinuke Cancer Foundation and Only Believe Care Foundation for partnering with the Society to organise this year’s celebration.
He reaffirmed NCS’s commitment to supporting national and international platforms for cancer-focused civil society organisations.
“May the good Lord grant all our cancer survivors more strength, long life, and a brighter and healthier future,” Dr. Omonisi added.
The theme for National Cancer Survivors Day 2025 is “Celebrating Life, Raising Awareness, and Inspiring Hope for the Future.”
The theme underscores the importance of honoring cancer survivors, acknowledging the ongoing challenges they face, and fostering hope for continued advancements in cancer care. It serves as a reminder that life after a cancer diagnosis can be meaningful and fulfilling, and it calls for collective efforts to support survivors in their journey.
Mercy Chukwudiebere