Tinubu Approves 35 New Cancer Machines to Boost Radiotherapy Access Across Nigeria.

President Bola Tinubu has given the green light for the purchase of 35 additional linear accelerators specialized machines used for radiation therapy over the next three years, as part of a major push to improve cancer care in the country.

Health Minister of State, Dr. Iziaq Salako, broke the news during a meeting with the Global Advisory Council of the National Cancer Control Plan Technical Working Group. He explained that the machines, which are expected to arrive between 2027 and 2029, will significantly expand access to radiotherapy a critical treatment for many cancer patients.

"The government is leaving no stone unturned," Salako said, adding that six new cancer centers are currently being developed nationwide. Three have already been completed, while the remaining three are still under construction.

Beyond treatment, the government is also focusing heavily on prevention. Salako noted that President Tinubu has approved the inclusion of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine in routine immunizations a game changer in the fight against cervical cancer. A Cervical Cancer Elimination Council has also been set up to coordinate efforts.

"Prevention is better and cheaper than cure," the minister emphasized. "We're expanding routine immunization, broadening screening services, and improving early detection across primary and secondary healthcare facilities."

In another development, the minister launched the Blood Cancer Consortium, aimed at fostering collaboration and improving outcomes for patients battling blood related cancers.

Meanwhile, the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) is calling on indigent cancer patients to take advantage of a federal government funded cancer health fund. Chief Medical Director, Prof. Idia Ize-Iyamu, made the appeal during a facility tour marking her one-year anniversary in office.

"We have a cancer health fund where patients can apply," she said. "If approved, they get certain privileges. It's not for everyone it's specifically for indigent patients struggling with cancer."

The tour also showcased several new upgrades at UBTH, including a renovated security setup, a 65-bed accident and emergency complex, an expanded mortuary, a child friendly pediatric clinic, a revitalized oxygen plant, and advanced imaging equipment like a 160-slice CT scan, among others.