Category: Health

  • FG approves $1.7bn Hope projects to improve healthcare for Nigerians

    FG approves $1.7bn Hope projects to improve healthcare for Nigerians

    The Federal Government of Nigeria has approved the sum of $1.7 billion for Human Capital Opportunities for Prosperity and Equity – Governance (HOPE – GOVERNANCE) project alongside the inter-related Primary Health Care Provision Strengthening (HOPE -PHC) project.

    This was made known during the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting held recently.
    While the HOPE-PHC project aims to improve utilisation of quality essential healthcare services and health system resilience in the country, governance reforms entrenched in HOPE-GOVERNANCE will support improvements in healthcare financing; enhance transparency and accountability; and increase recruitment, deployment and performance management of primary healthcare workers by Federal, State and Local governments.
    The HOPE-PHC project will be driven by the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare while the HOPE-GOVERNANCE project will be anchored by the Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning.

  • Cancer Society urges NASS to approveN25bn for transition of Nat’l Cancer Health to Health Insurance Fund

    Cancer Society urges NASS to approveN25bn for transition of Nat’l Cancer Health to Health Insurance Fund

    The Nigerian Cancer Society, NCS, has called on the National Assembly to appropriate N25 billion for the transition of the National Cancer Health to a Catastrophic Health Insurance Fund.

    Furthermore, NCS implored the National Assembly and the Federal Government to appropriate additional funds to close N97.2 billion funding gag in the National Oncology Initiative.

    On the other hand, the organisation appealed to President Bola Tinubu to immediately intervene by deploying possible measures to stop the growing migration of Nigerian medical practitioners outside the country.

    Addressing the media, Friday, in Abuja in commemoration of the 2025 World Cancer Day, the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Cancer Society, Prof. Abidemi Emmanuel Omonisi, expressed great worry that Nigeria is already undergoing a catastrophic Human Resource for Health (HRH) crises due to the current rate of migration of health workers to overseas.

    “We observe that, the current brain drain was attributed but not limited to poor remuneration, poor infrastructure, insecurity, low standard of living and inadequate funding for the healthcare system. This has led to migration of radiation and clinical oncologists, pathologists, oncology nursing and other categories of health workers .

    “The ideal ratio of a radiation and clinical oncologist to cancer patients is ratio 1: 250 – 500 but the ratio of the radiation and clinical oncologist to cancer patients in Nigeria is presently ratio 1: 1,800 according to the current statistics from the Association of Radiation and Clinical Oncologists of Nigeria (ARCON) who is a corporate member of the Nigerian Cancer Society.

    “This accounted for the increasing long queue observed in all our oncology clinics in the country.

    “I wish to specially appeal to the President and Commander In-Chief of the Federal Government of Nigeria to address the “ push and pull ‘’ factors responsible for the exodus of skilled health workers from the country, ” he said.

    According to him,”The NCS regrettably notes that cancer treatment is very expensive and beyond the capability of most patients in Nigeria, that largely rely on out-of- pocket expenses for the treatment.”

    The group encouraged Nigerians to take enrollment into the National Health Insurance Authority,NHIA, more seriously “as reliance on out-of- pocket funding by most patients is frustrating. “

    “Although, we are very grateful to the Federal Government of Nigeria, and we sincerely appreciate the role played by the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare in establishing the National Cancer Health Fund ( NCHF), ” it said.

    NCS said the provision in the proposed 2025 national budget for the Cancer Health Fund will cover no more than 22 patients in the entire country.

    “We are seriously pleading for the sake of indigents cancer patients in Nigeria which constituted more than seventy percent of people living with cancer in Nigeria that more funds should be allocated to the NCHF in the 2025 budget, ” Prof. Omonisi said.

    He solited donations from well-meaning Nigerians, banks, organized private sector, philanthropists, government agencies and multinational organizations to support the various activities of the Nigerian Cancer Society (NCS).

    “The Nigerian Cancer Society is a non-profit organization that is dependent on payment of dues from her members, and donations.

    “Our society since her establishment on 12th October, 1968 (over 56 years in existence) has been actively

    involved in assisting both Federal and State Governments in the formation of policies on cancer prevention and control.

    ” Our society has been actively involved in cancer awareness and screening all over the country but yet, it is very shameful that, the Nigerian Cancer Society has no place anywhere in Nigeria including the Federal Capital Territory, where we can point to as our National Secretariat.

    “We are currently being accommodated by the African Health Budget Network. We also have no operating vehicles. We will appreciate the interventions of well-meaning Nigerians, the organized private sector, multinational organizations , states and federal government agencies in helping to address these needs, “he begged.

    Prof. Omonisi commended the Federal Ministry of Health for directing all cancer centres and all health institutions where cancer patients are managed to have a Multi-disciplinary Team (MDT).

    “The NCS implored the Federal Ministry of Health to follow up her earlier directive on MDT and ensure total compliance, ” he added.

  • USAID funding cut threatens development programmes in Nigeria

    USAID funding cut threatens development programmes in Nigeria

    Emotions have continued to trail the recent Executive Order by President Donald Trump to halt foreign aid to African countries as thousands of employees at the US Agency for International Development (USAID) are to commence on compulsory leave from Friday, February 7, 2025.

    The sudden halt the USAID funding to organizations outside the US has sent shockwaves through Nigerian development programmes circles with several local organisations that rely entirely on the agency’s funding being forced to dismiss staff, cancel programme activities, and abandon life-saving interventions, raising fears of a humanitarian and development crisis.

    While some stakeholders have condemned the step taken by the US government, citing implications for the common people who are the main beneficiaries of the programmes, some insist it serves as a wake-up call for Nigeria and other African countries to begin to look inward.

    Findings by Vanguard revealed that the order has also sparked fear of people losing their jobs due to the setback this might cause to Non -governmental organisations that are affiliated to USAID in Nigeria.

    Presently, some of these organisations have shutdown, waiting for further directives from their funders. For example, a family planning training programme planned for Abuja by one of such organisations was abruptly cancelled just two days before its launch due to the funding freeze.

    The USAID programmes are crucial for global development, promoting U.S. national security and economic prosperity while empowering self-reliance in recipient nations.

    In Nigeria, USAID focuses on economic growth, food security, health, governance, gender equality, renewable energy, and stability in conflict-affected areas.

    Nigeria is 6th among the top countries that are the highest beneficiaries of USAID. In 2023, Nigeria received $1.02 billion, much of it through agencies like USAID.

    For instance, USAID’s initiatives in Nigeria address key challenges through various programmes. The Feed the Future Initiative boosts agricultural productivity and market access for farmers, improving incomes and food security.

    USAID also works to enhance trade by supporting customs reform and improving transportation infrastructure, while also boosting private sector capacity and export opportunities.

    The E-WASH project tackles urban water and sanitation issues in six states, aiming to provide clean water access to millions of Nigerians.

    In the health sector, USAID works to improve access to family planning, reproductive health services, and immunisations. They also collaborate with various partners to strengthen Nigeria’s capacity to manage tuberculosis cases and reinforce primary health care. These multifaceted programmes demonstrate USAID’s commitment to Nigeria’s development, fostering empowerment, resilience, and a brighter future.
    Sadly, if the executive orders pass through after 90 days, these programmes will suffer, although the Nigerian government said it has launched a committee to develop a transition and sustainability plan for USAID-funded health programmes following. .

    Speaking to Vanguard in Lagos, the Chairman of the Management Committee Association for the Advancement of Family Planning, Dr Ejike Orji said the sudden freeze has disrupted critical programmes for organisations that depend on USAID for 100 per cent of their funding.

    “With no notice, staff salaries would be cut, advocacy campaigns halted, and vital training programmes cancelled.
    Orji said: “For example, a family planning training program planned for Abuja was abruptly cancelled just two days before its launch due to the funding freeze.

    “We had everything in place—partners, participants, and logistics. But the funding halt forced us to scrap the programme entirely. The ripple effects will be felt across the communities we were meant to serve.”

    Orji explained that similar programmes in Lagos, Sokoto, Bauchi, and other regions, aimed at building civil society advocacy for family planning and immigration reform, have also been indefinitely postponed.

    He said the health sector, a key focus of USAID’s support in Nigeria, is currently facing devastating consequences. USAID provides 80 per cent of Nigeria’s resources for managing diseases like HIV and malaria. The withdrawal of these funds threatens to undo decades of progress.

    He warned that without USAID support, there would be an immediate crisis.

    “Nigeria has one of the highest numbers of people on antiretroviral drugs in Africa. A disruption to this supply could result in a surge of HIV-related deaths and new infections.”

    The impact extends beyond HIV. Family planning programmes are also in jeopardy, potentially leading to a rise in unintended pregnancies and maternal mortality.

    “The loss of funding for family planning will lead to more children being born into poverty, increasing Nigeria’s population growth rate and straining public resources,” said Orji.

    Noting that agriculture and food security were already threatened, he said in addition to health, agriculture programmes supported by USAID are also facing uncertainty.

    These programs, he said provide farmers with training, resources, and market access, and play a crucial role in ensuring food security for millions.

    The loss of agricultural funding will push vulnerable communities further into poverty,” the development expert stated.

    “Without these interventions, smallholder farmers will struggle to adapt to climate change and improve productivity.”

    Stating that the Nigerian government has established a committee to assess the fallout and explore mitigation strategies, he said while the move is welcomed, more decisive action is needed.

    “This is a wake-up call for African countries. We cannot continue to depend entirely on foreign aid. The government must step up and prioritize local funding for critical sectors,” Orji said.

    Stating that the committee is also considering alternative funding sources and partnerships to fill the gap left by USAID, he said implementation challenges remain, and time is of the essence.

    “The crisis raises concerns about the long-term impact on Nigeria’s development goals. In the short term, health outcomes will deteriorate, while in the long term, the loss of funding could undermine efforts to eradicate HIV and achieve sustainable population growth.

    “This isn’t just about money. It’s about lives. It’s about the future of a nation. The government must act swiftly to prevent a full-blown disaster.”

    Orji noted that while USAID’s funding freeze stems from political and budgetary constraints in the United States, its impact on countries like Nigeria is profound.

    According to him, “Nigeria must learn to stand on its own. This is a painful but necessary lesson. It’s time to

    invest in ourselves and take control of our destiny.”

    Also commenting, the Director of Research at the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research, NIMR, Lagos, Professor Oliver Ezechi, said the removal of funding will impact negatively on the programmes in Nigeria.

    He said a sudden withdrawal can disrupt ongoing services, leading to immediate gaps in care, particularly for vulnerable populations reliant on these essential health services.

    Ezechi also argued that President Donald Trump’s executive order to stop funding for these programmes did not come as a surprise to many of them, rather, it was a day foretold.

    He said for several years now, they have been informed that U.S. support for funding these programmes in various countries would continue to dwindle and may even cease entirely.

    He said already, the various initiatives have indeed seen U.S. support decline over the years, lamenting that the problem is that governments of benefiting countries did not take the warning seriously and failed to gradually assume greater ownership.

    “Let me put it in better perspective: although these governments started investing, they did not do enough, hence the panic following Trump’s executive order. Truly, the removal of funding will impact negatively on the programs. A sudden withdrawal can disrupt ongoing services, leading to immediate gaps in care, particularly for vulnerable populations reliant on these essential health services.

    “The risks of increased morbidity and mortality from these diseases loom large, as the absence of support may spark a resurgence of these illnesses. Economically, health crises can strain national systems, resulting

    in higher healthcare costs and lost productivity. Also, the loss of U.S. funding which often comes with technical expertise and support could undermine existing infrastructure and capacity-building efforts.

    “However, there may be silver linings to this challenging situation. The cessation of U.S. funding could encourage countries to take greater responsibility for their public health initiatives, promoting a sense of ownership and accountability among these governments.

    “This shift might prompt them to allocate more resources and develop sustainable funding mechanisms. In addition, with reduced reliance on U.S. support, countries could diversify their funding sources, seeking alternative partnerships with other international organisations, NGOs, or private-sector investments.”

    He said while the transition may be fraught with immediate challenges, it could lead to a more resilient and self-sufficient approach to public health in the long run.

    Meanwhile, to close the gaps, the Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved $1.07 billion for healthcare sector reforms under the Human Capital Opportunities for Prosperity and Equity (HOPE) programme. The council also allocated N4.8 billion for HIV treatment, signalling a significant investment in Nigeria’s health sector.

    The country has also launched a committee to develop a transition and sustainability plan for USAID-funded health programmes following the 90-day halt of most foreign aid. The multi-ministerial committee aims to secure new financial support for critical health programmes.

    The committee comprises officials from the ministries of finance, health, and environment—intends to ensure that patients receiving treatment for HIV, tuberculosis, and malaria do not experience setbacks amid the uncertainty over U.S. foreign policy.

  • ‘I avoided eba, amala, akpu to beat breast cancer’ – Akeredolu’s widow

    ‘I avoided eba, amala, akpu to beat breast cancer’ – Akeredolu’s widow

    Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, widow of the former governor of Ondo State, Rotimi Akeredolu, has revealed that eliminating starchy foods played a crucial role in her survival after being diagnosed with breast cancer 27 years ago.

    She said that her decision to stop consuming eba, amala, akpu and pounded yam was driven by her determination to stay alive and raise her young children.

    In a social media post on Wednesday marking World Cancer Day, she described her cancer journey as a “mixed grill of triumph and lately of grief,” emphasising how lifestyle changes, research and medical intervention contributed to her survival.

    “If stopping drinking coke and other minerals, swallowing eba, pounded yam, amala and akpu would prolong my life knowing that starchy foods and sugar fuel the growth of cancer, so be it. That was exactly what I did. I stopped drinking minerals, no ‘swallow’ and no bread since 2000!” She wrote.

    Since 2000, Anyanwu-Akeredolu said she has avoided sugary and starchy foods, opting instead for a diet rich in vegetables, smoothies, green tea, lemon and ginger tea, beans, moimoi, fish, chicken, snail, occasional rice and zobo drink.

    The former Ondo First Lady, whose husband passed away from prostate cancer on December 23, 2023, emphasised that maintaining a positive mindset was key to her survival. She credited her decision to seek medical care at the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, rather than relying on spiritual healers, as a crucial step in her recovery.

    Anyanwu-Akeredolu also noted that detecting the cancer early at stage 1 significantly improved her chances of survival.

    As the founder of the Breast Cancer Association of Nigeria (BRECAN), she highlighted the importance of Team Survivors Nigeria (TSN), a support group for breast cancer survivors.

  • FG intensifies efforts to end Female Genital Mutilation

    FG intensifies efforts to end Female Genital Mutilation

    Abuja — The Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, has reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to eradicating Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) in Nigeria.

    Her remarks came during a press briefing in Abuja to mark the International Day of Zero Tolerance for FGM.

    Sulaiman-Ibrahim highlighted the urgent need for action, noting that Nigeria accounts for 19.9 million women and girls affected by FGM, with a prevalence rate of 20% among women aged 15 to 49.

    “We are not just marking another international commemoration today; we are using today to reaffirm our commitment to ending one of the most serious violations of human rights — Female Genital Mutilation (FGM),” she stated.

    Describing FGM as a public health crisis and a significant development challenge, the minister emphasized that it impedes progress toward achieving key Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

    To tackle the issue, Sulaiman-Ibrahim outlined the government’s multi-sectoral strategy, which includes strengthening legal frameworks, scaling up community interventions, and promoting cultural and behavioral change.

    She called on stakeholders to collaborate in the fight against FGM, stressing its violation of human rights.

    “The fight against FGM is not the responsibility of one ministry, one organization, or one sector—it is a collective responsibility. FGM is not culture; FGM is not tradition. FGM is a human rights violation. Together, let us #UNITE2ENDFGM. Together, let us ensure that every girl in Nigeria is free to live, free to dream, and free to thrive.”

    The minister pledged continued efforts to amplify the voices of survivors, strengthen law enforcement, and promote education and economic empowerment for women and girls.

    Planned activities include an advocacy walk to the National Assembly to engage lawmakers on enhancing legal frameworks and budget allocations for anti-FGM programs. An advocacy visit to Jigawa State will also be conducted to mobilize grassroots organizations and engage community leaders.

  • ‘Cancer not death sentence’ – Soludo’s wife

    ‘Cancer not death sentence’ – Soludo’s wife

    Wife of the Anambra Governor, Dr Nonye Soludo, has called for intensified awareness of early cancer detection, saying the disease becomes deadly only when it is detected late.

    Mrs Soludo, the Founder of Healthy Living Initiative, made the call on Tuesday in Awka, to commemorate the 2025 World Cancer Day.

    The theme for this year’s edition is, “United by Unique.”

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that World Cancer Day is marked every Feb. 4, to raise awareness about the disease and to encourage people to prevent and detect it, as well as to continue to search for new treatments.

    Mrs Soludo said: “Cancer is stealing from us in astronomical numbers due to late presentation and detection.

    “Each story of survival and death reminds us that we owe so much to raising awareness and taking stronger actions to reduce the burden of cancer in our communities.

    “In the heart of cancer care and education is the fact that early detection remains the key to achieving the right solution, and routine cancer screening is also paramount.

    “There is need to explore impacts of people-centred cancer care and how we can advance long-term solutions to the global epidemic,” she added.

    Mrs Soludo noted that overall lifestyle and diet could lower the chances of getting cancer.

    She promised that her initiative would continue to champion cancer education in the state, especially at the grassroots.

    “At Healthy Living with Nonye Soludo Initiative, we understand how essential this message on cancer awareness can be to our peopl

    “We are urging residents to prioritise routine screening for early detection and treatment. Cancer becomes deadly only when detected late.

    “Our fight against cancer, especially those that affect women, is a vision to create the right awareness that cancer is entirely not a death sentence,” she said.

  • Trump’s HIV funding freeze

    Trump’s HIV funding freeze

    The announcement by President Donald Trump to cut funding for international HIV/AIDS initiatives, including those targeting Nigeria and other low and middle-income countries, sent ripples across the world. A week later, on January 28, 2025, the administration granted a waiver for essential medicines and medical services, allowing the global HIV treatment programme to continue.

    The waiver will ensure that Antiretrovirals, ARVs, and medical services supported through the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief, PEPFAR, can continue to be distributed in Nigeria.

    Currently PEPFAR is the largest donor for HIV treatment in Nigeria, having committed an estimated $7.8 billion in funding covering around 90 per cent of the treatment needs and working closely with the Nigerian government to enhance prevention, treatment, and support for those affected by HIV/AIDS.

    The waiver notwithstanding, the message is clear: The days of dependence on donor funding are numbered. Over the last two decades, various partners, including the U.S. government, have played a crucial role in Nigeria’s HIV/AIDS response, especially in maintaining treatment for individuals living with HIV. It is time for Nigeria to take ownership of its own national response.

    Nigeria leads West and Central Africa in the number of people living with HIV, which continues to pose a significant threat. Currently, the country accounts for about 10 per cent of the global HIV burden.

    In 2023, there were 75,000 new infections and 45,000 HIV-related deaths. The number of children born with HIV is still high because the efforts to tackle Mother-To-Child Transmission challenges is just about 35 per cent as against the 75 per cent target.  Nearly 1.7 million children have been orphaned by HIV, highlighting the broader societal impacts of the epidemic. Vulnerable populations, including women and children, are particularly affected, further complicating the problem.

    Nigeria has a national HIV/AIDS response led by the National Agency for the Control of AIDS, NACA, that is focused on increasing access to testing, treatment, and education as part of this response. Nigeria has seen successes in scaling up antiretroviral therapy, ART, coverage, reaching around 1.9 million Nigerians but challenges persist.  Limited access to healthcare facilities, stigma surrounding the disease, and inadequate awareness campaigns remain stumbling blocks. These challenges must be subdued to ensure that ongoing efforts to combat HIV/AIDS continue effectively.

    The federal government and other stakeholders must take concrete actions to oppose funding cuts. Advocacy campaigns urging lawmakers to protect HIV funding are essential. Grassroots movements can mobilise support and raise awareness about the consequences of such decisions. Exploring viable alternative funding mechanisms is also crucial to mitigating the impact of potential cuts. Increased domestic funding, public-private partnerships and philanthropic initiatives can all help to sustain vital programmes.

    To prevent the Trump administration’s threat to suspend HIV funding from continuing to pose significant risk to public health, Nigeria must act swiftly to safeguard the progress made in HIV prevention and treatment by addressing the issue and ensuring that those affected by HIV in Nigeria continue to receive the care they need and deserve.

  • Digitisation’s future of qualitative healthcare in Nigeria — Dr Iziaq Salako

    Digitisation’s future of qualitative healthcare in Nigeria — Dr Iziaq Salako

    The Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako has urged public health institutions to digitize their clinical services and operations in order to ensure qualitative healthcare for all Nigerians.

    Salako who spoke in Lagos during his oversight visit to the Federal Medical Centre Ebute Metta; Federal Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital, Yaba, and National Orthopaedic Hospital, Igbobi all in Lagos,  commended the management and staff of the FMC Ebute Metta  for their exemplary operations.

    He described the facility as a “small body with a big engine,” praising its efficient use of space, digital innovations, and quality equipment.

    “The paperless system here is remarkable and positions FMC Ebute Metta as a key player in Mr. President’s agenda to reverse medical tourism,” the minister said.

    He outlined the federal government’s commitment to expanding cancer care, initiatives such as the Cancer Health Fund, which supports patients diagnosed with cancer, and the Catastrophic Health Fund, which subsidizes treatments for severe conditions, including kidney dialysis.

    Subsidised dialysis cost

    “Dialysis costs have been reduced from N50,000 per session to N12,000 due to government interventions. Expanding cancer treatment facilities and raising awareness are also high priorities.”

    He said the federal government is addressing the issue of bed space through the establishment of eight new Federal Medical Centres and teaching hospitals across the country.

    “These expansions will alleviate pressure on existing facilities and provide more bed spaces for patients,” he explained.

    He added that increased budget allocations to the health sector would further support infrastructure development.

    Yaba psychiatric hospital

    At the Yaba Psychiatric Hospital, the minister acknowledged that not much commitment has been shown on improving mental health care in the country.

    He assured the hospital of support through the implementation of the newly signed Mental Health Bill, which aims to expand the mental health care space and establish a mental health department within the Federal Ministry of Health.

    “With the signing of the Mental Health Bill into law, we are prepared to take bold steps to prioritise mental health in Nigeria.

    “This includes addressing drug abuse, supporting indigent patients, and enhancing infrastructure and technology at psychiatric institutions like this one.

    “The government is exploring a Vulnerable Support Fund in the 2024-2025 budget to assist indigent patients. We also aim to address delays in manpower approvals and encourage healthcare workers to remain committed to serving their country,”  he revealed.”

    National Orthopedic Hospital, Igbobi

    Salako commended the hospital’s role in reducing medical tourism by providing specialised surgeries such as spinal and hip replacement procedures, saving foreign exchange for Nigeria.

    He also pledged the federal government’s support to address the institution’s challenges, emphasising the government’s commitment to advancing healthcare infrastructure and ensuring patient satisfaction.

    “The National Orthopedic Hospital, Lagos, is a centre of excellence, and we must continue to expand services, improve skills, and build confidence in what we do. We will explore avenues to address energy issues, rehabilitate aging infrastructure, and support the training institutions,” Salako stated.

    The Medical Director, FMC Ebute Metta, Dr Adedamola Dada, explained how he was able to reposition the hospital which initially had 72 bed spaces to 450 beds currently.

    He credited the transformation to a well-executed roadmap, which enabled the hospital to maximize its resources and serve more patients.

    “The hospital’s infrastructure and capacity have also expanded significantly.  Operating theatres increased from three to 12.  Training programmes expanded from two departments to eight and annual patient load quadrupled from 50,000–60,000 to over 200,000, with approximately 4,000 new patients registered each month.”

    He said under his leadership, FMC Ebute Metta became the first public health institution in Nigeria to attain Level 4 certification under the international SafeCare Assessment Programme.

    Also, the Medical Director of the  National Orthopedic Hospital (NOHIL), who was represented by the Head of Clinical Services, Dr. Lawal Wakeel Olaide disclosed that the hospital has adopted full automated clinical services and operations.

    “We operate a wallet system, ensuring seamless financial management for patient care. This automation supports our goal of enhancing efficiency and transparency,” he said.

    Despite these achievements, Olaide highlighted pressing challenges, including aging infrastructure, inadequate energy supply, and limited capacity for patient care and student training.  “We are an institution of over 80 years old. Most of our facilities, including our gym, are in dire need of rehabilitation. Energy costs alone amount to ?50-60 million monthly, and our reliance on alternative sources like solar power remains insufficient for high-energy equipment.”

    Also speaking, the Medical Director, the Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital Lagos, Dr Olugbenga Owoeye called for enhanced funding and support to address persistent challenges and meet growing demands.

    Expressing the hospital’s gratitude for the federal government’s commitment to mental health, he highlighted the urgent need for additional resources to sustain and expand the hospital’s services.

    Owoeye highlighted the pressing need for a purpose-built drug unit, enhanced capacity for patient admissions, additional staff accommodations, and improved power supply infrastructure.

    “In a month, the hospital spends over half a million on electricity alone, yet our overhead allocation is insufficient to cover this cost,” he explained.

  • Cancer no longer death sentence, access to  treatment major obstacle — NCS

    Cancer no longer death sentence, access to treatment major obstacle — NCS

    On this year’s World Cancer Day, themed ‘United by Unique,’ experts in cancer treatment have declared that cancer is no longer a death sentence.

    They stressed that overcoming this disease requires collective action, patient-centred care, and a concerted effort to tackle the challenges of early detection, treatment accessibility, and rising healthcare costs.

    Speaking in Lagos, a 10-year cancer survivor, and the Chairperson of the Nigerian Cancer Society (NCS), Tinu Lawal said: “Cancer is not just about survival; it’s about thriving with dignity, hope, and support. We have come a long way from the days when cancer treatment was a far-off dream.”

    Lawal, whose personal journey of survival through limited resources serves as a testament to resilience, shared how she underwent treatment during a time when Nigeria only had one functional radiotherapy machine—one that was often breaking down due to overwhelming demand.

    Reflecting on how far cancer care in Nigeria has come, Lawal acknowledged the strides made in recent years but pointed out that significant challenges remain.

    “We’ve moved from where we were 10 years ago—almost at ground zero—to where we are today, but there’s still much to do.  Survival rates are improving, but the reality is that there is still a long road ahead for patients, especially in terms of access to affordable treatment and healthcare services.”

    The economic barriers to cancer treatment remain steep, with some therapies costing as much as N3 million per session, she said: “The cost is crippling. A single session of radiotherapy now costs almost N3 million, a far cry from the N200,000 I paid for my treatment years ago,” Lawal explained. She called on the government to provide greater financial support to patients and healthcare providers, stressing that

    healthcare workers in Nigeria, despite the pressures of brain drain, are the unsung heroes of the healthcare system.

    She called on the Nigerian government to urgently address the issue of Japa syndrome currently affecting the treatment of patients.

    Noting that one of the key focuses of this year’s World Cancer Day celebration is to advocate for early detection, Lawal emphasised that early detection and treatment are vital. “The sooner we catch cancer, the better the chances of survival. Everyone must take responsibility for their health—regular checks and screenings should be a part of everyday life,” she said.

    She said the Nigerian Cancer Society’s Lagos chapter, under her leadership, was committed to raising public awareness, de-stigmatising cancer, and promoting the importance of early detection. Through outreach programs, community engagement, and partnerships, the NCS aims to ensure that cancer becomes a central part of public health conversations.

  • FEC approves $1.07bn for health sector financing

    FEC approves $1.07bn for health sector financing

    The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved $1.07 billion for healthcare sector reforms under the Human Capital Opportunities for Prosperity and Equity (HOPE) programme. The council also allocated N4.8 billion for HIV treatment, signaling a significant investment in Nigeria’s health sector.

    The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, made the announcement in Abuja. He revealed that the financing includes two concessional loans of $500 million each from the World Bank’s International Development Association (IDA), alongside $70 million in grant funding from international organizations.

    Providing further details, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, stated that the HOPE programme aligns with the administration’s agenda to strengthen human capital development. The funds will focus on improving healthcare governance and enhancing primary healthcare services nationwide.

    “This financing will support the recruitment, training, and retention of healthcare workers and teachers at the subnational level. Additionally, $500 million will be dedicated to improving the quality, utilization, and resilience of the primary healthcare system, including emergency maternal and child health services,” Pate explained.

    He emphasized that part of the broader healthcare reforms include N4.8 billion for the procurement of 150,000 HIV treatment packs over the next four months. This investment underscores the federal government’s commitment to providing life-saving treatment and reducing healthcare costs for vulnerable populations.

    The council also reviewed the impact of recent U.S. policy changes on Nigeria’s health programmes, particularly in relation to funding for HIV, tuberculosis, and malaria.

    As part of the resolutions, a multi-ministerial committee—comprising representatives from the Ministries of Finance, Health, Defense, and Environment, as well as the Governors’ Forum—has been tasked with developing a transition and sustainability plan to mitigate potential funding disruptions.

    “This administration is committed to ensuring uninterrupted treatment for those in need. We appreciate the U.S. government’s contributions over the years and remain dedicated to constructive partnerships while strengthening Nigeria’s healthcare system with domestic resources,” Pate remarked.

    In addition to health sector reforms, the Nigeria Customs Service received approval for N20 billion in projects, including the procurement of compressed natural gas (CNG) vehicles and the construction of forward bases in remote areas. A N1 billion life insurance policy for customs officers was also approved.

    These actions highlight the Nigerian government’s focus on healthcare, human capital development, and financial stability, paving the way for significant improvements in social services.