By Mercy Gadia
The Federal Government on Wednesday launched a ₦50m Social Determinants of Health Fund for cancer patients, with over 200 verified beneficiaries set to receive financial support to overcome treatment barriers.
Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr Iziaq Salako, announced the initiative in Abuja, saying it targets non-medical challenges such as transport, accommodation and feeding that often prevent patients from completing treatment.
“Cancer care goes beyond hospitals. Many patients are unable to continue treatment due to financial and social constraints,” Salako said.
He disclosed that more than 600 patients applied for the scheme, with 200 already cleared through hospital-based verification.
Each beneficiary, he said, would receive at least ₦100,000 paid directly to ensure transparency.
Salako added that the fund followed recommendations by the National Cancer Control Plan Technical Working Group and is designed to complement existing interventions.
“We are determined to ensure cancer diagnosis does not become a death sentence,” he stated, urging corporate bodies and philanthropists to support the initiative.
Permanent Secretary, Daju Kachollom, described the programme as a shift from policy to action.
“Barriers like transport costs, loss of income and poor nutrition significantly affect outcomes. This initiative directly addresses them,” she said.
She added that the programme aligns with the Nigeria National Cancer Control Plan 2026–2030 and reflects a broader commitment to accessible and affordable cancer care.
Kachollom called for collective action, stressing that government alone cannot win the fight against cancer.
“Together, we can remove the barriers standing between patients and life-saving care,” she said.