The Nigerian Cancer Society (NCS) has endorsed the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare’s Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) Assistance Programme, aimed at supporting cancer patients and survivors across Nigeria.
The Secretary-General of the society, Prof. Adamu Bojude, disclosed this in a statement issued on Thursday in Abuja, describing the initiative as a major step toward improving equitable access to cancer care nationwide.
Bojude said the programme, inaugurated through the National Cancer Control Plan Technical Working Group (NCCP TWG), was designed to support patients facing social and economic challenges that affect treatment access and continuity of care.
He noted that cancer care goes beyond medical treatment, as many patients struggle with transportation costs, food insecurity, and other non-medical barriers that hinder effective management.
According to him, the initiative will provide transportation support to treatment centres, food and nutritional assistance, as well as other essential services for patients and their families.
“The Nigerian Cancer Society fully endorses this initiative and remains committed to advancing equitable cancer care and patient support across the country.
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“No cancer patient should be denied access to care because of transportation costs, food insecurity or other non-medical barriers,” he said.
Bojude added that the society, Nigeria’s leading professional body on cancer control, advocacy, research and patient support, had also contributed financially to the support fund.
He said the contribution reflected the society’s continued commitment to supporting cancer patients beyond advocacy and policy engagement.
He also commended Prof. Folakemi Odedina, who leads the NCCP TWG, for strengthening cancer control efforts and fostering strategic partnerships in Nigeria.
Bojude described Odedina, a member of the NCS Board of Trustees representing the diaspora community, as instrumental in advancing collaborative cancer care initiatives.
He encouraged eligible cancer patients and survivors across the country to apply for the programme and share information with others who might benefit.
“The first disbursement of support funds is expected later this month, bringing hope and relief to many patients and families navigating the cancer journey,” he said.
Bojude reaffirmed the society’s commitment to working with government agencies, healthcare professionals, development partners, survivors and communities to improve cancer outcomes in Nigeria.
“Together, we can reduce barriers to cancer care and strengthen support for every cancer patient in Nigeria,” he said.
