By Kamal Yalwa : July 26, 2025
The Federal Government has inaugurated three advanced oncology centres in Katsina, Enugu, and Benin, marking a significant milestone in Nigeria’s efforts to expand access to cancer treatment and address the growing burden of non-communicable diseases.
The centres, located at the Federal Teaching Hospital, Katsina; the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital (UNTH), Enugu; and the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), Benin City, were commissioned as part of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s National Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremonies, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Ali Pate, said the Tinubu administration is committed to transforming cancer care in Nigeria through “unprecedented investments” in modern treatment facilities and diagnostic capabilities.
“These new centres demonstrate the President’s resolve to improve healthcare outcomes and reduce the burden of cancer and other non-communicable diseases across the country,” Prof. Pate stated.
He emphasized that the new facilities would enhance early diagnosis, provide state-of-the-art treatment options, and serve as hubs for training medical professionals in oncology care.
Also in attendance were the Minister of Finance, Wale Edun, and the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, who joined Prof. Pate in celebrating the achievement.
The new centres form part of a broader strategy to decentralize specialized healthcare services and bring quality cancer treatment closer to communities nationwide. Prof. Pate noted that additional investments would soon follow in diagnostics and clinical workforce development.
This development aligns with the Tinubu administration’s health reform agenda, which prioritizes improved access, equity, and quality in Nigeria’s healthcare delivery system.
