Nigeria Cancer Society Advocates for Expanded Cancer Care

During the 2026 World Cancer Day rally in Port Harcourt, Professor Abidemi Omonisi, the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigeria Cancer Society, emphasized the urgent need for expanded cancer prevention, screening, and treatment services across Nigeria. He particularly highlighted the necessity of focusing on rural communities and internally displaced persons camps.

Omonisi commended the River State government for strengthening health infrastructure, especially the Peter Odili Cardiovascular Cancer Centre, but lamented the high costs and limited insurance coverage that worsen cancer outcomes. He noted that cancer control efforts should not be concentrated solely in Abuja and Lagos but should be accessible nationwide.

The Nigeria Cancer Society acknowledged the establishment of the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (NICRAT) and called for increased collaboration among stakeholders. Omonisi identified cervical, breast, and prostate cancers as prevalent in Nigeria and stressed that early diagnosis and screening could significantly reduce cancer-related deaths.

He urged the government and private sector to invest in healthcare improvements and cancer awareness campaigns.