Nigeria to Procure 25 Linear Accelerators for Cancer Care

The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced plans to procure 25 additional linear accelerators between 2027 and 2029 to expand cancer prevention and treatment infrastructure. This initiative was disclosed by Dr Iziaq Adekunle Salako, the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, during the National Cancer Control Plan (NCCP) Technical Working Group and Global Advisory Council meeting in Abuja.

The meeting aimed to review progress under the NCCP and strengthen coordinated actions for improved cancer prevention, early detection, treatment, research, and survivorship care in Nigeria. Salako emphasized the government's commitment to cancer prevention through vaccination, screening, and early detection, while also expanding treatment capacity under the National Cancer Control Plan 2026–2030.

He noted the severe burden of cancer in Nigeria, attributed to late presentation and limited resources. The government is also constructing six Cancer Centres of Excellence, with three completed, and has approved routine human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination as part of the immunization schedule.