By Folasade Akpan
The National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (NICRAT) says the proposed N302.3 billion National Cancer Institute will serve as a hub for training and retraining of oncology experts and researchers across Africa.
Prof. Usman Aliyu, Director-General of the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (NICRAT), said this in a statement issued on Tuesday in Abuja by the institute’s Head of Media and Public Relations, Hassan Zaggi.
Aliyu said that the facility, approved by the Federal Executive Council and expected to be completed within 36 months, would strengthen cancer research, treatment, innovation and capacity building in Nigeria.
“It will equally be a centre for the development of highly skilled cancer care professionals.
“It will strengthen evidence-based policy-making, promote innovation and technology-driven cancer care, and foster collaboration with leading institutions within Nigeria, Africa and globally,” he said.
Aliyu said the state-of-the-art institute would provide an enabling environment for oncology experts to conduct innovative research in different areas of cancer.
He said the facility would also help Nigeria reduce medical tourism by providing sophisticated cancer diagnosis and treatment locally.
According to him, Nigeria loses millions of dollars annually as many cancer patients travel abroad in search of advanced diagnosis and treatment.
He added that the institute could position Nigeria as a destination of choice for cancer treatment and research by other African countries and beyond, thereby improving the country’s foreign exchange earnings.
Aliyu said the project would lay the foundation for a stronger healthcare system capable of responding more effectively to the evolving health needs of Nigeria’s growing population.
He said cancer had remained a major challenge in Nigeria because of inadequate access to early diagnosis, treatment and research, leaving many patients unable to obtain prompt and affordable care.
The NICRAT boss also cited the recent completion of upgraded cancer centres in Katsina, Benin and Enugu as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen specialised cancer care in the country.
He described the approval of the new institute as a game changer that would give Nigeria greater visibility and capacity in cancer care and research.
“The construction of the institute with state-of-the-art equipment will give Nigeria more visibility and dignity among comity of nations in terms of cancer care and research.”
Aliyu further noted that the project would lay the foundation for a stronger healthcare system capable of responding more effectively and promptly to the evolving health needs of Nigeria’s growing population.
He commended President Bola Tinubu for approving the design, construction, furnishing, equipping, supervision and commissioning of the institute, describing the decision as a demonstration of concern for the health and wellbeing of Nigerians.
He also commended the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Pate, for his strategic leadership as well as the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr Iziaq Salako, for his advocacy and support.
Aliyu assured that NICRAT would continue to work with relevant ministries, departments and agencies, state governments, development partners, civil society organisations, the private sector and other stakeholders to build a coordinated national cancer control system.
He said the management and staff of the institute were committed to ensuring that the project delivered on the objectives of the Renewed Hope Agenda.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Funmilayo Adeyemi
2026-08-25