Nigeria Launches Blood Consortium to Combat Cancer Burden

The federal government of Nigeria has inaugurated a blood consortium aimed at strengthening partnerships and investments in cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment. Dr Iziaq Adekunle Salako, the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, made this announcement on Wednesday while meeting with members of the Global Advisory Council of the National Cancer Control Plan Technical Working Group in Abuja.

He highlighted the severe cancer burden in Africa, exacerbated by late presentations and limited resources. The government has prioritized partnerships in implementing the National Cancer Control Plan 2026–2030, emphasizing the importance of international collaboration.

Salako noted the inclusion of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination in the routine immunization schedule as a significant step towards cervical cancer prevention. He also mentioned the construction of six cancer centers of excellence, with three completed and three under development, and the procurement of 35 additional linear accelerators planned between 2027 and 2029 to enhance radiotherapy services in Nigeria.