The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare has announced plans to enroll all Nigerians, including those battling cancer, in health insurance programs.
Ms. Daju Kachollom, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, unveiled this initiative during a symposium organized by the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (NICRAT) in Abuja to commemorate World Cancer Day.
The theme of the symposium: “Close the Care Faps: Operationalising the National Strategic Cancer Control Plan,” underscored the need for comprehensive measures to tackle cancer care disparities across the nation. Kachollom emphasized that integrating cancer patients into health insurance schemes would play a pivotal role in addressing the financial challenges associated with cancer treatment.
Highlighting the NHIA Act of 2022, which mandates health insurance coverage for all Nigerians, Kachollom stressed the government’s commitment to achieving universal healthcare coverage. She also announced President Bola Tinubu’s approval of new Radiotherapy and Nuclear Medicine facilities for six Federal Teaching Hospitals in the country, as outlined in the 2024 Appropriation Act.
The collaboration between the Ministry and the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA) aims to ensure the timely implementation of these critical healthcare infrastructure projects. Kachollom further underscored the escalating prevalence of cancer in Nigeria and identified key gaps in the country’s response, including challenges in early diagnosis and limited access to quality care.
Commending the establishment of NICRAT in 2023, Kachollom described it as a significant milestone in the national cancer control strategy. She emphasized the institute’s pivotal role as a central implementing agency, driving governmental initiatives in cancer research, treatment, and prevention.
Prof. Usman Aliyu, the Director-General of NICRAT, echoed the urgent need to address disparities in cancer care and treatment.
He highlighted the institute’s achievements in cancer research, treatment modalities, and prevention strategies since its inception.
The announcement marks a significant step forward in the government’s efforts to enhance cancer care and underscores its commitment to ensuring equitable access to healthcare services for all Nigerians, regardless of their medical condition.
