Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Agency Report
Published on 2024-03-22 19:25:40
The federal government and the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance oncology care in Nigeria. The MoU was signed by the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Ali Pate, and the Managing Director of NSIA, Aminu Umar-Sadiq, in Abuja.
Mr. Pate emphasized that the MoU would facilitate the procurement of oncology equipment for the management of cancer. He highlighted the significance of upgrading the equipment in the six cancer centers located in designated teaching hospitals across the six geo-political zones of the country. This initiative is expected to bring an end to the challenges faced by thousands of Nigerians who struggle to access care for cancer.
Mr. Pate also pointed out that Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs), including cancers, are among the fastest-growing disease burdens in the country. He commended NSIA for its technical capacity and experience in executing similar projects, citing the successful project at Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) as an example.
NSIA Managing Director, Umar-Sadiq, expressed the organization’s commitment to supporting the government’s oncology initiative. He highlighted the impact of the NSIA-LUTH Cancer Centre and emphasized the importance of replicating such facilities across the country. He emphasized the need for all stakeholders to work together to ensure the success of the project.
The Chief Medical Director (CMD) of Jos University Teaching Hospital, Pokop Bupwadata, praised the strategy of involving NSIA in ensuring sustainability in managing the six cancer centers. He emphasized the value that NSIA’s experience and expertise would bring to the government’s efforts in the healthcare sector.
The CMD of LUTH, Wasiu Adeyemo, shared his experience of the transformation brought about by NSIA’s involvement in the LUTH Cancer Centre. He expressed gratitude on behalf of Nigerians and staff at the center for the initiative.
The signing of the MoU aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s directive to upgrade the six cancer centers in the country’s six geopolitical zones to improve cancer treatment.
In conclusion, the collaboration between the federal government and NSIA is set to revolutionize oncology care in Nigeria. The initiative aims to provide world-class oncology facilities across the country, ensuring better access to cancer treatment for all Nigerians. With a focus on sustainability and efficiency, this partnership holds the promise of significant improvements in the healthcare sector and the overall well-being of the population.
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