1 week ago
22
ABUJA – 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.
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 the former Minister of Health, Prof. Isaac Adewole.
“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.
Dr. Salako emphasized the importance of prevention as the most effective strategy, given the country’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 achieve this goal, the Minister charged the Task Force to ensure that screening and immunization efforts reach the grassroots, stressing the need for widespread awareness and accessibility of preventive healthcare.
Dr. Salako expressed optimism about the collaboration between the Task Force and the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (NICRAT), noting that their partnership will significantly advance the fight against cervical cancer and strengthen 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 to ensure effective implementation of its recommendations.
Presenting the first-quarter report to the Minister, Prof. Isaac Adewole revealed that the Task Force comprises sixteen eminent Nigerians, all dedicated to achieving the global agenda of eliminating cervical cancer by 2030.
He highlighted key activities carried out between October and December 2024, stressing the importance of collaboration with NICRAT to enhance its functionality and deliver on 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.
As the government accelerates its efforts toward cervical cancer elimination, stakeholders emphasize that public awareness, early detection, and sustained immunization campaigns will be critical to achieving this ambitious target.
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