The federal government has announced the completion of three new cancer treatment centres as part of a broader initiative to improve access to oncology services across Nigeria.

The centres, situated at the Federal Teaching Hospital in Katsina, the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital in Nsukka, and the University of Benin Teaching Hospital, will be officially commissioned on 29 May.

Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Muhammad Pate, made the announcement on Thursday through a statement. He said the new centres are the first in a planned network of 10, which is intended to become the largest chain of oncology and diagnostic facilities in West Africa.

Pate stated that the centres are expected to serve nearly 2,000 oncology patients and 350,000 diagnostic clients each year. In addition to clinical services, the facilities will also provide training for up to 500 healthcare professionals over the next three years. He noted that staff training is already underway ahead of the full operational launch of the centres.

While no timeline was provided for the completion of the remaining seven centres, Pate said the current development marks a step forward in improving cancer care infrastructure in Nigeria.

Cancer remains a major health concern in the country, with delayed diagnosis and high treatment costs continuing to affect patient outcomes, particularly in underserved areas. Health professionals have repeatedly called for expanded investment in infrastructure, local capacity building, and measures to make care more affordable.

To address financial barriers, Pate said the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) has introduced a cost-sharing programme offering up to N400,000 in support for eligible patients receiving radiotherapy.

“This initiative will significantly reduce the financial burden of cancer care and increase access to treatment,” he said. “Under the compassionate leadership of Mr President and in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda, we are removing both supply and demand obstacles to affordable and qualitative cancer care in Nigeria.”

Pate added that the government’s broader aim is to establish a sustainable framework for cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment that serves all income levels.