…Receives Task Force Report
From Atiku Sarki, Abuja
The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to eliminating cervical cancer by 2030, in line with the World Health Organization’s target.
This commitment aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s priority of eliminating preventable cancers and ensuring early diagnosis for those that cannot be prevented.
The Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, reiterated this commitment while receiving the report of the Task Force on the Elimination of Cervical Cancer, led by its chairman, Prof. Isaac Adewole.
Dr. Salako noted that the formation of the task force in 2024 demonstrates the government’s determination to tackle cervical cancer, aligning with the president’s vision of achieving universal health coverage for all Nigerians.
“This commitment underscores the critical strategy of early diagnosis for non-preventable cancers and the elimination of preventable ones,” he stated.
Dr. Salako stressed that prevention remains the best approach, given Nigeria’s weak health infrastructure and limited funding for the health sector.
“Prevention is not only cheaper but far better than cure. Eliminating cervical cancer means prioritizing prevention at both primary and secondary levels, and I believe this is something we must continue to push for,” he said.
He urged the task force to ensure that screening and immunization programs reach grassroots communities, emphasizing the importance of nationwide accessibility.
The minister highlighted the collaboration between the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (NICRAT) and the task force, describing it as a key factor in achieving the government’s health sector goals.
“This partnership aligns with the sector-wide approach (SWAp) strategy initiated by the ministry to ensure collective action toward a common goal,” he noted.
On funding, Dr. Salako assured that the ministry would support and incorporate some of the task force’s activities into the 2025 budget.
Presenting the first-quarter report, Prof. Isaac Adewole stated that the task force comprises 16 eminent Nigerians dedicated to eliminating cervical cancer.
He outlined the key activities carried out between October and December 2024, emphasizing the importance of collaboration with NICRAT to enhance its functionality and achieve its mandate.
With the necessary support, Nigeria can align with the global agenda of eliminating cervical cancer by 2030, Prof. Adewole affirmed.
The report presentation was witnessed by the National Coordinator of the National Cervical Cancer Program, Dr. Uchechukwu Nwokwu, and Dr. Abisola Adegoke (mni), representing Dr. Salahudeen Jimoh (mni), Director of the Hospital Services Department in the Ministry.
