The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to eliminating cervical cancer by 2030, aligning with the World Health Organization (WHO) target and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision of eradicating preventable cancers in Nigeria.
This commitment was reiterated by the Minister of State for Health & Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, while receiving the Task Force on Elimination of Cervical Cancer, led by former Minister of Health, Prof. Isaac Adewole, in Abuja.
“The formation of this Task Force in 2024 demonstrates the government’s unwavering commitment to tackling cervical cancer and ensuring its elimination. This aligns with Mr. President’s vision of achieving universal health coverage for all Nigerians,” Dr. Salako stated.
Prevention as a Cost-Effective Strategy
Dr. Salako emphasized that prevention remains the most effective approach to combating cervical cancer, especially given Nigeria’s weak health infrastructure and limited funding in the sector.
“Preventive approaches to cervical cancer and other diseases are the best in our current health system. Prevention is not only cheaper but also much more effective than cure. Eliminating cervical cancer means prioritizing prevention at both primary and secondary levels,” he explained.
To ensure widespread access to preventive healthcare, the Minister charged the Task Force to intensify screening and immunization efforts at the grassroots. He stressed the need for mass awareness campaigns to encourage early detection and vaccination.
Strengthening Collaboration with NICRAT
Dr. Salako expressed optimism about the collaboration between the Task Force and the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (NICRAT). He noted that this partnership would play a critical role in advancing the fight against cervical cancer and reinforcing the sector-wide approach (SWAp) strategy initiated by the Ministry.
On funding, the Minister assured that the 2025 budget would accommodate some of the Task Force’s activities, ensuring the successful implementation of its recommendations.
Task Force Presents First-Quarter Report
Presenting the first-quarter report, Prof. Isaac Adewole revealed that the Task Force comprises sixteen eminent Nigerians who are passionate and committed to the global agenda of eliminating cervical cancer by 2030.
He highlighted key activities carried out between October and December 2024, emphasizing the importance of collaborating with NICRAT to enhance its functionality and fulfill its mandate.
“With the right support, Nigeria can fully integrate into the global movement to eliminate cervical cancer by 2030,” Prof. Adewole affirmed.
The report presentation was witnessed by the National Coordinator of the National Cervical Cancer Programme, Dr. Uchechukwu Nwokwu, alongside Dr. Abisola Adegoke, representing Dr. Salahudeen Jimoh, Director of Hospital Services, Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare.
Public Awareness and Early Detection Key to Success
As the government accelerates efforts to eliminate cervical cancer, stakeholders emphasize that public awareness, early detection, and sustained immunization campaigns will be critical to achieving this ambitious target.
