By Joyce Remi-Babayeju
The FCT Minister of State, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud has called for urgent, inclusive, and sustainable action to tackle the prevalence and ensure proper treatment of cancer disease among residents.
Mahmoud made this call at the commemoration of 2025 World Cancer Day organised by the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (NICRAT), in Abuja.
Mahmoud emphasised that the present FCT Administration is not only investing in infrastructure but also taken deliberate steps to strengthen the healthcare system, ensuring that residents of the FCT have better access to quality services, including cancer prevention and treatment.
She also called for collaboration to ensure that no one in the FCT was left behind in the fight against cancer.
The Minister said, “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, therefore, commended the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (NICRAT) for its dedication to advancing cancer prevention, treatment, and research in Nigeria.
She stated, “The commitment to driving awareness and fostering collaboration is truly commendable, and today’s event is yet another testament to your tireless efforts.”
The mi.ister further assured that the FCT Administration remains ready to collaborate with NICRAT and other stakeholders to drive impactful interventions that would improve the health indices of residents and ultimately save lives.
Earlier, the Director General of National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment, Prof. Usman Malami Aliyu said that World Cancer Day was aimed at raising awareness, improving education, and catalysing joint action to prevent cancer, as well as to support those affected by the disease.
While speaking on this year’s theme; “United by Unique,” the DG highlighted the importance of collaboration to create inclusive cancer solutions globally .
Aliyu emphasised that since the inception or NICRAT, the Institute has initiated and sustained robust collaboration with local and international partners on training of the cancer workforce at all levels of care, research, and contemporary preventive measures.
He, also assured that the Institute would continue to work hard to ensure the actualization of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the health sector, especially in cancer care.
