Nigeria Approves N302.3bn National Cancer Institute

The Director General of the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (NICRAT), Prof. Usman Malami Aliyu, announced the approval for the construction of a National Cancer Institute, costing approximately N302.3 billion. This approval was granted by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and communicated by the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, during a Federal Executive Council meeting in Abuja.

The institute is projected to be completed within 36 months. Prof. Malami emphasized that this initiative reflects the government's commitment to improving the health and well-being of Nigerians.

He stated that the facility will enhance cancer research, treatment, and capacity building, positioning Nigeria as a leader in cancer care in Africa. The project aims to significantly reduce medical tourism, as many Nigerians currently seek cancer treatment abroad, costing the country millions of dollars annually.

Malami noted that the establishment of NICRAT three years ago has already improved Nigeria's global standing in the fight against cancer.