FG Unveils N50m Support Fund For Cancer Patients

The Federal Government has unveiled a N50 million Social Determinants of Health Fund aimed at supporting cancer patients facing financial and social challenges that hinder access to treatment.

The initiative, announced by the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Salako, is designed to assist vulnerable Nigerians struggling with non-medical expenses associated with cancer care.

Speaking during the official unveiling of the fund’s disbursement in Abuja on Wednesday, Salako said the programme would help patients overcome barriers such as transportation costs, accommodation, feeding and inadequate social support.

According to the minister, these challenges often prevent patients from commencing treatment on time or completing prescribed therapy, leading to poor health outcomes.

Salako disclosed that more than 600 cancer patients have already submitted applications for assistance under the scheme, while over 200 applicants have successfully passed the verification process.

He explained that the verification exercise involved collaboration with medical directors and attending physicians at healthcare facilities where the patients are receiving treatment.

The minister stated that each verified beneficiary would receive a minimum of N100,000 to ease some of the financial pressures associated with accessing cancer care.

“The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare will provide fifty million naira as government’s initial contribution to the Social Determinants of Health Fund for cancer patients,” he said.

He added that funds would be disbursed directly to beneficiaries to ensure transparency, accountability and effective utilisation of the support.

Salako noted that despite government investments in cancer care infrastructure, treatment subsidies and awareness campaigns, many patients continue to face significant indirect costs that affect their ability to access healthcare services.

He identified transportation, accommodation near treatment centres, food insecurity and inadequate family support as major obstacles confronting cancer patients, particularly those from low-income backgrounds.

According to him, these factors contribute to delayed diagnosis, interrupted treatment and increased financial hardship for affected families.

The minister explained that the initiative was developed following recommendations from the National Cancer Control Plan Technical Working Group established after the launch of Nigeria’s National Cancer Control Plan 2026–2030.

He expressed optimism that the intervention would reduce the burden on cancer patients and improve treatment outcomes across the country while encouraging greater collaboration among stakeholders in supporting cancer care services.