The Federal Government of Nigeria has been urged to strengthen its efforts in addressing Nigeria’s growing cancer burden through increased partnerships and sustainable health interventions.
The call was made during the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between First Ladies Against Cancer (FLAC), the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (NICRAT), and global pharmaceutical company Roche.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Zainab Shinkafi Bagudu, outgoing Chairperson of FLAC and former First Lady of Kebbi State, emphasized that the MoU is designed to ensure long-term sustainability in the fight against cancer.
“The idea behind signing an MoU with NICRAT is to ensure that the work FLAC does is sustainable, evidence-based, and supports the progress of cancer control, easing the burden for patients in Nigeria,” Bagudu stated.
The partnership is expected to focus on areas such as cancer research, early detection, treatment access, and the implementation of evidence-driven cancer policies across the country.
Bagudu also applauded Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for her leadership in the fight against cervical cancer, particularly through the launch of the Partnership Against Cervical Cancer Elimination.
FLAC, a coalition of current and former state first ladies, continues to play a pivotal role in driving cancer awareness and advocacy in Nigeria. The new MoU seeks to formalize its collaboration with key stakeholders and align its objectives with national cancer control strategies.
