14/08/2026
NCCP, Mayo Clinic and National Hospital Abuja Unite to Tackle Cancer Burden.
The National Cancer Control Plan (NCCP) Technical Working Group (TWG), chaired by Professor Folakemi Titilayo Odedina, alongside members of the Mayo Clinic, USA Advisory Board, paid a strategic visit to the National Hospital Abuja to assess its oncology facilities and explore opportunities for collaboration in cancer control, research, clinical trials and patient support.
Speaking during the meeting, Professor Odedina said the visit was aimed at assessing the hospital's readiness and identifying opportunities for collaboration that can strengthen cancer control and help reduce cancer-related deaths in Nigeria by 2030.
She noted that the NCCP TWG is working to establish global partnerships, including institutions such as the University of Maryland, Mayo Clinic, Fox Chase Cancer Center and VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center. She explained that these partnerships could lead to Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare and collaborating institutions to support research, clinical trials, capacity building and other sustainable cancer-control interventions.
Professor Odedina also highlighted the importance of workforce readiness, research capacity, and preparedness for the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and data in cancer control. She said the TWG is conducting surveys to understand the capacity and needs of institutions, noting that the information will help provide visibility to strategic partners and facilitate targeted support and collaboration.
She further highlighted the Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) Support Programme, which provides financial assistance to selected cancer patients for essential non-medical needs such as transportation and feeding.
Professor Odedina said the overall objective of the partnerships and initiatives is to strengthen Nigeria's cancer-control system, improve access to quality care and ultimately reduce cancer fatalities by 2030.
Responding on behalf of the Chief Medical Director, Professor Muhammad Raji Mahmud, the Chief Medical Advisory Committee (CMAC), Dr. Olayinka Isiaka Lawal, appreciated the delegation for its commitment to improving cancer care and supporting patients. He affirmed the readiness of the National Hospital Abuja to collaborate with the NCCP TWG and its partners and provide the necessary institutional support to advance cancer-control initiatives.
Following the meeting, the delegation proceeded on an inspection tour of relevant oncology facilities within the National Hospital Abuja to assess existing capacity and readiness for potential clinical trials, research activities and future collaborative programmes.