The Nigerian Cancer Society (NCS) has called for stronger policies, sustainable financing and improved health systems to strengthen childhood cancer care in Nigeria.
NCS President, Prof. Abidemi Omonisi, made the call in Abuja to mark Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, stressing the need to improve access to specialised treatment, essential medicines, diagnostic services and trained healthcare professionals. He said the society was supporting implementation of the Nigeria National Cancer Control Plan (NCCP) 2026–2030, particularly measures targeting vulnerable groups such as children.
Omonisi urged parents, communities and healthcare workers to recognise possible warning signs of childhood cancer and seek medical attention promptly, noting that early diagnosis can improve outcomes. He also called for more research to better understand cancer patterns in Nigerian children and develop locally appropriate interventions.
The NCS president advocated a whole-of-society approach involving government, healthcare workers, families, schools, civil society, researchers, the private sector, media and cancer survivors. He said support should continue beyond treatment to include long-term medical, educational and psychosocial care for survivors and their families.
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