The Director General of the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (NICRAT), Prof. Usman Aliyu, has urged all state governments to invest more in cancer prevention, control, and treatment to ease the burden on patients.
Speaking during a visit by the Kebbi State Cancer Control Programme delegation, led by Health Commissioner Comrade Yunusa Musa Ismail and representing the Governor’s Wife, Dr. Nafisa Nasiru Idris, Prof. Malami reaffirmed NICRAT’s readiness to partner with all 36 states and the FCT.
He praised Kebbi State’s efforts, noting its early establishment of a cancer control program, a 5-year strategic plan, and partnerships with local and international bodies.
Read Also: Health warning: Nasal tanning sprays linked to cancer, breathing problems
He announced an upcoming Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the state to enhance cooperation.
Prof. Malami also disclosed that the National Cancer Health Fund is undergoing reforms to better assist low-income patients and that NICRAT is partnering with herbal practitioners to explore alternative treatments.
Representing the Governor’s wife, Hajiya Salamatu Bala Tafida assured NICRAT of continued support from the Nafisa Nasir Charity Development foundation (NANAS) and the state government.
Dr. Shehu Nuhu Koko, Permanent Secretary of the Kebbi Health Ministry, reaffirmed the state’s commitment to sustaining cancer care structures, including a chemotherapy center, cancer registries, and free treatment initiatives.
Kebbi’s anti-cancer efforts, initiated by former Governor Abubakar Atiku Bagudu and his wife, Dr. Zainab Shinkafi Bagudu, continue under the current administration.
