By Queen Kunde
The Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, has urged urgent, inclusive, and sustained efforts to combat cancer, emphasizing the need for collaboration to ensure no one is left behind in the fight against the disease.
Speaking at the 2025 World Cancer Day commemoration in Abuja, organized by the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (NICRAT), Mahmoud reaffirmed the FCT Administration’s commitment to strengthening healthcare infrastructure and expanding access to quality cancer prevention and treatment services.
“We understand that tackling cancer requires collective efforts. This is why the FCT Administration is committed to forging strategic partnerships with institutions like NICRAT to enhance cancer awareness, build capacity for prevention and early detection, and improve access to screening and treatment services,” she stated.
Commending NICRAT for its dedication to cancer research and treatment in Nigeria, Mahmoud highlighted the importance of collaboration in raising awareness and fostering impactful interventions.
NICRAT’s Director General, Prof. Usman Malami Aliyu, echoed the Minister’s sentiments, emphasizing that World Cancer Day serves as a platform to improve education and drive joint action against cancer. He highlighted NICRAT’s ongoing partnerships with local and international stakeholders to enhance cancer workforce training, research, and prevention strategies.
Aliyu assured that NICRAT remains committed to supporting the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, particularly in advancing cancer care in Nigeria.
With cancer continuing to pose a major public health challenge, Mahmoud reaffirmed the FCT Administration’s readiness to collaborate with stakeholders to implement life-saving initiatives and improve health outcomes for residents.
