Cancer remains a major public health concern globally, ranking as the second leading cause of death worldwide.
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), it accounted for an estimated 9.6 million deaths in 2018 alone.
Moreover, the increasing burden of cancer is attributed to various factors, including an ageing population, lifestyle changes, and environmental exposures.
In Nigeria, the situation is particularly alarming.
According to Project Pink Blue, the country records approximately 124,000 new cancer cases and 79,000 cancer-related deaths annually.
Unfortunately, the lack of adequate cancer care facilities, limited access to early detection, and high treatment costs have made the disease a formidable challenge.
As a result, many patients face severe financial and emotional burdens as they seek treatment outside their states, or even abroad.
Recognising the urgency of the situation, Gov. Hyacinth Alia has taken a groundbreaking step to combat cancer in Benue State.
Specifically, his administration has allocated N2 billion for the establishment of a state-of-the-art cancer treatment centre at the Benue State University Teaching Hospital (BSUTH) in Makurdi.
This initiative was announced during the International Health Investment Summit and Scientific Exhibition, themed “Towards Attaining a One-Stop Hospital”.
The event served as a platform for Governor Alia to reaffirm his administration’s commitment to improving healthcare infrastructure and providing accessible, world-class medical services to the people of Benue.
Furthermore, the proposed cancer treatment centre aims to provide comprehensive care, covering everything from early detection to advanced treatment stages, including radiotherapy and chemotherapy.
The facility is expected to greatly reduce cancer-related deaths by offering timely and effective medical interventions.
Moreover, the governor has stressed the importance of ensuring that high-quality cancer care is accessible within Benue State, thus eliminating the need for costly medical trips outside the region.
Emphasising the broader vision behind this initiative, Alia stated: “This investment is not just about fighting cancer; it is about transforming our healthcare system to meet international standards.
“A healthy population is the bedrock of economic and social development.
“By addressing critical health challenges, we are ensuring a brighter and more prosperous future for Benue”.
Likewise, the Chief Medical Director of BSUTH, Dr Stephen Hwande, commended the governor’s initiative, calling it a landmark development in the state’s healthcare sector.
“This is a game-changer not only for Benue but for the entire region.
“With the establishment of this cancer treatment centre, BSUTH will not only serve as a beacon of hope for cancer patients in the state but will also attract patients from neighbouring states and beyond”.
Hwande further noted that the new facility would greatly improve cancer care outcomes, reduce mortality rates, and ensure timely treatment for thousands of patients.
Additionally, the centre will provide state-of-the-art diagnostic and therapeutic services, positioning BSUTH as a hub for medical excellence in Nigeria.
Meanwhile, the initiative has received widespread support from stakeholders across various sectors.
Former Governor Gabriel Suswam, who chaired the summit, commended the governor for his visionary leadership, stating that development should transcend political affiliations.
In addition, traditional rulers, including the Tor Tiv, Prof. James Ayatse, and the Och’ Idoma, Agaba-Idu John Elaigwu, have praised the governor’s efforts.
They have also pledged to mobilise their communities to embrace and support the project, recognising its potential to save lives and strengthen the healthcare system.
Beyond the cancer centre, Gov. Alia has reiterated that his healthcare agenda is holistic and far-reaching.
For example, his administration is actively upgrading hospitals, equipping primary healthcare centres, and recruiting more healthcare professionals.
These efforts align with broader national and global health strategies, aiming to strengthen medical infrastructure and make high-quality healthcare accessible to all citizens.
Comparatively, other states in Nigeria have also made notable efforts in the fight against cancer.
For instance, Lagos State has invested massively in cancer prevention and treatment through its Lagos State Cancer Research Institute.
The state has launched free cancer screening programmes and partnered with private institutions to expand access to oncology services.
Similarly, Rivers State has introduced community-based cancer awareness initiatives while working towards establishing an advanced oncology centre.
Moreover, Kano State has prioritised cervical cancer vaccination campaigns, targeting young girls to prevent Human Papillomavirus (HPV)-related cancers.
However, in spite of these efforts, challenges persist across different states, including funding limitations, inadequate medical personnel, and the high cost of treatment.
Therefore, experts emphasise the need for stronger government intervention, increased public-private partnerships, and improved health policies to combat cancer effectively.
Hwande shared the same view, adding that investing in advanced healthcare technologies and strengthening medical facilities is crucial to addressing Nigeria’s growing cancer burden.
He emphasised that a comprehensive, well-funded healthcare system is the key to reducing preventable deaths and improving overall public health.
As the plans for the cancer treatment centre take shape, Governor Alia’s initiative stands as a beacon of hope.
It exemplifies how visionary leadership and strategic investments can transform healthcare and improve the lives of millions.
Stakeholders, however, insist that the global cancer burden requires a coordinated response from governments, healthcare institutions, and individuals.
They opined that by prioritising cancer care, increasing awareness, and investing in advanced medical facilities, Benue is taking steps towards a healthier, more prosperous future. (NAN)
