Eliminating cervical cancer achievable by 2030 – FG 

The federal government has affirmed its commitment to eliminating cervical cancer by year 2030, aligning with the World Health Organisation’s target.

This position was strengthened by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s top priority for eliminating all preventable cancers and early diagnosis of those that are not preventable.

Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, stated this when he received a delegation of Taskforce on Elimination of Cervical Cancer Committee, led by its chairman, Professor Isaac Adewole.

He stated further that the formation of a taskforce last year by the ministry demonstrates government’s unwavering commitment to tackle cervical cancer and its elimination, which aligns with Mr. President’s vision of achieving universal health coverage for all Nigerians.

Dr. Salako stated that it underscores the critical strategy of early diagnosis of those that are not preventable and elimination of all preventable cancers.

“Preventive approach to cervical cancer and other diseases is the best approach in view of our weak health infrastructure and the poor funding that is still in the health space.

“And we know that ultimately, prevention is not only cheaper, it is better much more than cure. So, elimination means that there will be a lot of attention on prevention at primary and secondary levels. And I believe this is something that we need to continue to push,” he stated.

The minister urged the taskforce committee to ensure that screening and immunisation exercises are taken down to the grassroots.

Expressing optimism on the working relationship between the National Institute of Cancer Research and Treatment (NICRAT) and the committee, he pointed out that it will strengthen achieving President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s agenda for health sector.

This partnership speaks to the essence of sector-wide approach strategy initiated by the ministry to ensure everybody is on the same page, the minister stated.

Dr. Salako assured that the ministry would support and accommodate some of the activities of the task force within the 2025 budget.

While presenting the first quarter report to the minister, the chairman of the task force, Prof. Adewole said the committee has sixteen eminent Nigerians as members who are committed and passionate about eliminating cervical cancer.