Wike reaffirms FCT Administration’s commitment to cancer prevention, care

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr Nyesom Wike, has reaffirmed the FCT Administration’s commitment to cancer prevention and care within the territory.

This was announced by the Mandate Secretary for Health Services and Environment Secretariat, Dr Dolapo Fasawe, in a statement issued in Abuja on Wednesday, in commemoration of the 2025 World Cancer Day.

Fasawe explained that the FCT Administration had partnered with the National Task Force on Cervical Cancer Elimination to ensure a cancer-free and healthier future for residents.

The partnership, she said, aims to achieve this goal through sustained collaboration, improved access to cancer care, and strengthened public health interventions, all of which will help prevent avoidable deaths and protect women in the FCT from cancer.

She emphasised the importance of collective efforts to ensure equitable and compassionate cancer care.

Fasawe pointed out that World Cancer Day, celebrated every Feb. 4, serves to raise awareness, advocate for improved access to healthcare, and reduce the cancer burden on families and communities.

According to her, the 2025 theme, “United by Unique,” aligns with the FCT’s commitment to prioritising people-centered care.

Fasawe commended the National Task Force on Cervical Cancer Elimination, led by its chairman and former Minister of Health, Prof. Isaac Adewole, for visiting the FCT to strengthen the partnership against cancer.

She highlighted that this collaboration was made possible due to the FCT’s outstanding performance and commitment to healthcare initiatives.

Fasawe stated that the FCT Administration would leverage the task force’s expertise and resources to enhance cervical cancer prevention, vaccination, screening, testing, and treatment efforts.

“Cancer remains a leading cause of death globally, primarily due to late detection and limited access to proper medical attention.

“The World Health Organisation has identified cancer as the second leading cause of death worldwide, urging the need for improved prevention, early detection, and access to quality treatment.

“In 2022, approximately 20 million new cancer cases were reported, with 9.7 million deaths globally.

“Nigeria recorded an estimated 127,000 new cases and 79,000 deaths.”

She said that the FCTA had implemented several key initiatives, including free HPV vaccination for girls aged 9-14 and pap smear screenings in all FCT public hospitals.

She added that primary healthcare workers from 62 basic healthcare facilities were trained on cervical cancer detection using acetic acid and lugol’s iodine.

“Additionally, colposcopy screening services are available at Wuse District Hospital every Thursday, and chemotherapy management is provided at Asokoro District Hospital.

“The FCT also collaborates with the City Cancer Foundation for statewide cancer prevention activities, including stakeholder mapping, needs assessments, and executive council engagements.”

Fasawe noted that, while cancer is preventable and treatable, late-stage diagnoses, limited treatment facilities, and a lack of awareness contribute significantly to its high mortality rates.

She emphasised the need to combat stigma, misinformation, and delayed treatment, which lead to preventable cancer deaths.

She said that the FCTA was working towards establishing fully equipped cancer centres to expand access to affordable cancer care, particularly in underserved areas.