By Joseph Erunke, Abuja

The National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (NICRAT) has addressed concerns raised by a viral social media video involving a cancer patient at Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Jabi, clarifying the status of oncology services at the facility and reiterating the Federal Government’s commitment to improving cancer care nationwide.

In a statement signed by NICRAT Director-General, Prof. Usman Malami Aliyu, the institute highlighted that under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, cancer care has received unprecedented attention, including the establishment of NICRAT and, for the first time in Nigeria’s history, a dedicated national budget for cancer control in 2024.

According to the statement, this funding reflects strong political will to expand access to modern oncology services, driving substantial investments in infrastructure, equipment, and specialist training across all six geopolitical zones. NICRAT also noted that the viral video acknowledged the dedication and professionalism of oncology staff at FMC Jabi.

NICRAT clarified that FMC Jabi is not currently one of Nigeria’s 12 designated Cancer Centres of Excellence, which are considered first-tier cancer treatment facilities. However, the hospital participates in NICRAT’s Preventive Oncology Programme, with plans to develop it into a leading oncology facility within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The Institute further disclosed that the government has procured additional state-of-the-art cancer treatment equipment for all designated centres of excellence to enhance service delivery. NICRAT also emphasized ongoing efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s oncology workforce through specialized training, improve cancer surveillance with expanded registries and digital monitoring, and increase access to essential cancer drugs via initiatives like the Nigerian Cancer Access Partnership (NCAP) and the National Cancer Health Fund (NCHF).

Appealing for patience from cancer patients and stakeholders, NICRAT reaffirmed the government’s commitment to sustainably elevate the quality and accessibility of cancer care across the country.