The Acting Chief Medical Director (CMD) of the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital (UATH), Prof. Bob Ukonu, on Thursday emphasized the urgent need to bridge the gap in cancer treatment outcomes in Nigeria.
Ukonu made the remarks during the “Mural of Hope: Unveiling Inspiration for Pediatric Cancer Patients” event in Gwagwalada. He was represented by the Acting Chairman of the Medical Advisory Committee, Prof. Joseph Obande.
The CMD explained that the Mural of Hope was created through a collaboration of foundations, including BIO Ventures for Global Health (BVGH), Medicaid Cancer Foundation (MCF), Nigeria Solidarity Support Fund (NSSF), and Burkitt’s Lymphoma Fund for Africa (BLFA). The mural, painted in the children’s cancer ward at UATH, is intended to inspire young patients as they undergo cancer treatment.
“About 80 percent of cancers are curable in the developed world, while in Nigeria only 20 percent are curable. This is a huge and concerning disparity,” Ukonu said.
He noted that nearly 60 percent of pediatric patients at UATH discontinue treatment, often due to fear, anxiety, or lack of hope. “When children begin treatment—whether through drugs, radiotherapy, or surgery—six out of 10 abandon it. There is a lot we need to do to reduce this gap,” he said.
According to Ukonu, art in clinical settings has been shown to ease anxiety, promote healing, and improve overall wellbeing. “This mural will inspire hope and assist in the healing process of children in this ward,” he added.
Dr. Uduak Offiong, Consultant Pediatrician in charge of the Oncology Ward at UATH, stressed the need for more advocacy and awareness programmes on pediatric cancer. “Many patients come from rural areas, and by the time they arrive, the cancer is often advanced, limiting treatment to palliative care. Early detection significantly improves outcomes,” she said.
Dr. Zainab Bagudu, CEO of the Medicaid Cancer Foundation, said the Mural of Hope public art contest was designed to bring hope, joy, and inspiration to children and families undergoing cancer treatment. Represented by Ms. Aisha Muhammed, Programme Manager, Bagudu noted that the mural is part of a broader programme at UATH to support pediatric patients emotionally and psychologically.
She thanked UATH for providing space for the initiative and BVGH for their collaboration in fighting cancer. “As we always emphasis at MCF, early detection saves lives. We must start the fight against cancer early,” she said.
The winning mural was designed and painted by visual artist and art educator, Mr. Joseph Steve. He said nature served as the inspiration for the artwork, noting that children themselves were a key source of motivation.
