Stakeholders Seek Stronger FG-Private Sector Synergy on Cancer Prevention in Nigeria

Stakeholders have called for a stronger partnership between the federal government and the private sector in Nigeria to advance cancer prevention and ensure equitable access to care. The federal government reported that over 18 million girls had been vaccinated against cervical cancer as of September. At a high-level policy roundtable organized by MSD and Africa Health Business in Abuja, the focus was on enhancing institutional alignment, increasing HPV vaccination, and investigating innovative financing solutions for cervical cancer elimination.

MSD emphasized that private sector involvement is vital to sustaining progress in prevention, screening, treatment, and financing. Nigeria has prioritized cervical cancer elimination, aligning with World Health Organization goals. Since the HPV vaccination program's launch in October 2023, over 18 million girls aged 9-14 have received the vaccine, a significant international effort.

MSD's External Affairs Director for sub-Saharan Africa, Vuyo Mjekula, highlighted the need to capitalize on this momentum by fostering stronger collaboration among various stakeholders. The National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) oversees immunization and is driving cervical cancer elimination policies. As of September, Nigeria had vaccinated 18 million girls, meeting about 76% of its target.

Cervical cancer claims approximately 12,000 new cases and 8,000 lives annually in Nigeria. Challenges to timely diagnosis include low awareness, late presentation, and limited access to quality care. Initiatives such as the Cancer Health Fund for indigent patients are being digitized to improve access.