The Federal Government has launched a free cancer screening initiative in Ebonyi State, targeting the first 1,000 individuals at the Alex Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital (AEFUTHA) in Abakaliki.
The program, flagged off on Wednesday by the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Mohammed Ali Pate (represented by Permanent Secretary Mrs. Daju Kachollom), forms part of nationwide activities to commemorate World Cancer Day 2026.
It focuses on early detection of the three most prevalent cancers in Nigeria: breast, cervical, and prostate.
Ebonyi State was selected to represent the South-East geopolitical zone for this regional launch. Beyond screenings, the initiative includes treatment for those diagnosed, capacity building for healthcare workers on treatment protocols, chemo-safety, and pain management.
It also emphasizes primary prevention through health education, public awareness campaigns, enlightenment programs, vaccination drives, and sustained screening efforts.
Permanent Secretary Mrs. Daju Kachollom highlighted the administration's commitment: “Under the present administration, we are strengthening healthcare services, expanding the health insurance scheme, improving access to diagnosis, enhancing local pharmaceutical production, and modernising tertiary institutions.”
Prof. Robinson Onoh, Chief Medical Director of AEFUTHA, explained that national regional centers were chosen for World Cancer Day events, with AEFUTHA serving as the hub for the South-East by providing free screenings for the initial 1,000 participants. The hospital has been positioned as a center for oncology services and medical tourism.
Ebonyi State Governor Francis Nwifuru (represented by Deputy Governor Mrs. Patricia Obila) praised the Federal Government for the initiative and pledged ongoing state support, including mobilizing local government authorities to raise awareness and encourage participation among residents. She stressed that early detection makes treatment more effective, affordable, and life-saving.
Cancer remains a major public health challenge in Nigeria, claiming nearly 10,000 lives annually, with a lifetime risk of about one in five for both men and women. This program aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda, aiming to reduce the cancer burden through equitable access to early detection, prevention, and care.
The nationwide rollout involves collaboration with agencies like the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (NICRAT) and partners such as the American Cancer Society.
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