Nigeria Targets 30% Reduction in Cancer Burden by 2030

The Federal Government of Nigeria, represented by Dr. Iziak Adekunle Salako, the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, announced a target to cut the cancer burden by 30% by 2030 during the opening of the Best of ASCO Africa 2026 conference in Abuja.

Nigeria recorded 1.19 million new cancer cases and 721,000 cancer-related deaths in 2024, accounting for 10.5% of the continent's cancer burden. The government is pursuing a comprehensive approach involving prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and research to reduce cancer-related deaths.

A national technical working group, including clinicians and cancer survivors, has been established to implement the National Cancer Control Plan from 2026 to 2030. Dr.

Salako acknowledged funding challenges and mentioned the establishment of a social determinants fund to support cancer patients. The initiative also includes introducing catastrophic health insurance to provide additional support for patients facing life-threatening illnesses.

Prof. Usman Malami Aliyu highlighted the need for local research relevant to Nigeria's cancer challenges.