FG declares war against cervical cancer, sets 2030 as deadline

The Federal Government of Nigeria has launched a national partnership to eliminate cervical cancer by the year 2030.

This move aligns with the World Health Organisation’s 90-70-90 global targets for cervical cancer prevention and control.

The initiative, named the Partnership for the Elimination of Cervical Cancer in Nigeria (PECCiN), was officially launched in Abuja.

The event took place at the State House Banquet Hall and drew dignitaries, medical experts, and policymakers.

Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, described the launch as a crucial milestone.

He said cervical cancer has devastated Nigerian women due to late diagnosis and poor access to adequate treatment.

Salako commended the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for championing health reforms and supporting cancer control efforts.

He said the First Lady’s influence has galvanized national attention towards eliminating cervical and other preventable cancers.

Dr. Salako also acknowledged the National Taskforce for the Elimination of Cervical Cancer, chaired by Prof. Isaac Adewole.

According to him, the taskforce has produced policy briefs and led advocacy missions to key stakeholders nationwide.

He said its efforts have secured support across sectors for intensified action against cervical cancer in Nigeria.

The Federal Government, he said, is strengthening diagnostic systems through a revitalised Nuclear Medicine Technical Working Group.

This group will support cancer staging, treatment monitoring, and early detection of recurrence in patients.

To make treatment more affordable, the government is also sustaining the Cancer Health Fund for low-income patients.

Plans are underway to create a Catastrophic Health Insurance Fund for cancer and other chronic disease treatments.

This new fund aims to reduce the out-of-pocket expenses faced by cancer patients across Nigeria.

Dr. Salako stressed that the new partnership will not only provide treatment but also emphasize cancer prevention.

He said PECCiN will drive awareness campaigns, increase screening coverage, and facilitate access to HPV vaccines.

Vaccination of young girls against the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is central to the cancer elimination plan.

According to experts, HPV is responsible for most cases of cervical cancer in women globally.

The partnership will focus on reaching women in rural and underserved areas with screening and treatment services.

Salako said more Nigerians must be educated on the importance of early detection and regular screening.

He said awareness alone can save thousands of lives by encouraging women to seek medical help early.

Stakeholders have pledged to support the campaign with logistics, funding, and technical assistance.

The government said it will continue working with NGOs, development agencies, and healthcare institutions to achieve its goal.

Salako stated that eliminating cervical cancer by 2030 is possible with united national and international collaboration.

He described the current momentum as a chance to rewrite Nigeria’s public health history.

The WHO 90-70-90 targets call for 90% of girls vaccinated by age 15, 70% of women screened by 35 and 45, and 90% of identified cases treated.

Nigeria’s commitment to meeting these targets demonstrates growing political will in the fight against cancer.

Dr. Salako urged healthcare workers to be proactive in educating patients about cervical cancer prevention.

He also called on religious leaders and traditional rulers to help spread the message to grassroots communities.

The Minister emphasized that collective action will determine whether cervical cancer becomes a disease of the past.

He encouraged Nigerian women to visit certified medical centers for screening, vaccination, and treatment services.

Salako concluded by stating that the government will spare no effort in achieving the 2030 elimination goal.

The launch of PECCiN represents a unified national response to one of the deadliest female cancers in Nigeria.

Observers hailed the initiative as timely and necessary given the rising number of cancer-related deaths in the country.

Nigeria now joins several nations actively pursuing cervical cancer elimination as part of global health commitments.

The health sector anticipates more local partnerships to enhance vaccine distribution and screening accessibility.

Citizens are urged to support the campaign by sharing accurate information and encouraging women to get screened.

With continued funding and public participation, experts say cervical cancer could become rare in Nigeria within five years.

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