In a landmark achievement for Nigeria’s healthcare system, the Federal Government yesterday commissioned three cutting-edge oncology centres in Benin, Katsina, and Enugu, marking a significant step forward in President Bola Tinubu’s Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative.
The facilities, designed to enhance access to advanced cancer care, were inaugurated at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (South-South), Federal Teaching Hospital, Katsina (North-West), and University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Enugu (South-East).
The commissioning ceremony was attended by key government officials, including the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, Minister of Health, Dr. Ali Pate, and Minister of Finance, Wale Edun.
These centres are the first of six regional oncology hubs funded through a partnership with the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA), aimed at addressing the rising burden of cancer across the country.
Each centre is equipped with state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment technologies, including advanced radiotherapy machines, chemotherapy suites, and specialized surgical units.
The initiative is expected to reduce the need for Nigerians to seek expensive cancer treatment abroad, saving billions in foreign exchange while improving patient outcomes.
Speaking at the event in Enugu, Dr. Ali Pate emphasized the government’s commitment to transforming healthcare delivery.
“These centres are a testament to President Tinubu’s vision of ensuring no Nigerian is left behind in accessing quality healthcare. By decentralizing cancer care, we are bringing hope closer to home,” he said.
The Minister of Finance, Wale Edun, highlighted the economic benefits of the initiative, noting that the NSIA’s investment reflects a sustainable model for funding healthcare infrastructure.
“This is not just about health; it’s about building a resilient economy where Nigerians can thrive,” Edun stated.
Local communities have expressed optimism about the new facilities. In Benin, Dr. Osagie Ekhator, a consultant at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital, described the centre as a “game-changer” for cancer patients in the South-South region.
“Patients who once had to travel to Lagos or abroad can now receive world-class treatment right here,” he said.
The remaining three centres, located in the North-East, North-Central, and South-West regions, are slated for completion by mid-2026.
The initiative has been hailed as a critical step toward achieving universal health coverage in Nigeria, with plans to integrate the centres into the National Health Insurance Scheme to ensure affordability.
As the nation celebrates this milestone, the Tinubu administration has reaffirmed its commitment to further investments in healthcare infrastructure, with a focus on tackling non-communicable diseases and improving maternal and child health services.
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