The Medicaid Cancer Foundation has disbursed ₦100 million to 60 cancer patients across Nigeria to support their treatment under its Access to Care initiative.

The disbursement was announced during an event at the foundation’s headquarters in Abuja, according to a statement issued on Tuesday.

Founder Dr. Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu, who also serves on the board of the Union for International Cancer Control, said the initiative aims to address gaps in early detection and access to affordable treatment, particularly in rural areas.

“Cancer patients are suffering in silence, many undiagnosed and untreated. Our goal is to change that reality by raising awareness, advocating for stronger health insurance, and promoting early screening for cancers such as breast, cervical, and prostate,” she said.

She added that the ₦100 million was raised through the foundation’s 11th annual WalkAway Cancer campaign and will fund surgeries, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and psychosocial support for beneficiaries.

Bagudu commended the Tinubu administration for establishing six new cancer centres and the Cancer Health Fund under the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment, but stressed that more investment is needed.

“A woman diagnosed with stage two breast cancer in Nigeria needs about ₦25 million for treatment. So while ₦100 million sounds significant, it barely covers four full cases. More investment in prevention, early diagnosis, and health insurance coverage is essential,” she said.

The statement also highlighted the presence of Minister of Finance, Mr. Wale Edun, who emphasized the importance of private sector partnerships in healthcare delivery.

“This initiative is not just about disbursing funds; it’s about giving hope. Partnerships between the government and private sector are bringing healthcare closer to the people. The national health budget has risen from 3% in 2023 to 5.2% in 2025 to prioritize healthcare, including cancer care,” Edun said, commending the foundation’s humanitarian work and encouraging other organizations to adopt similar models.

Dr. Yakubu Agada-Amade, Director of Standards and Quality Assurance at the National Health Insurance Authority, said collaborations with groups like Medicaid have improved management of high-cost diseases through insurance.

“Through these partnerships, we’ve treated over 240 cancer patients so far. Early detection is improving, and we’re now seeing more stage one and stage two cases, which is encouraging,” he said.

Prof. Usman Malami, Director-General of the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment, added that the federal government has earmarked ₦200 million for cancer funding in 2025, noting that contributions from civil society organizations are helping reach more patients.

Cancer survivors at the event shared their experiences.

Mrs. Gloria Chinio Oku, a breast cancer survivor and member of the Network of People Impacted by Cancer in Nigeria, said, “Cancer has taken a lot from me—money, relationships, even confidence. But it has also made me an advocate. Seeing leaders like Dr. Bagudu take action gives me hope that we are not alone.”

Mr. Omonade Jacob Ochuco, 49, who survived male breast cancer, shared, “Men get breast cancer too. I’ve spent over ₦17 million so far, and it’s been tough. My advocacy project, It All Starts with a Lump, encourages men to seek early detection because it saves lives.” He called for increased government and partner support and urged action against stigma.

Shinkafi-Bagudu reaffirmed the foundation’s commitment to advancing cancer awareness, screening, and patient support until “no Nigerian dies needlessly from a preventable or treatable cancer.”

The event featured a survivors’ panel, a fireside chat with breast cancer patients, and the launch of the Medicaid Cancer Foundation Circle, held alongside activities marking the November 17 Cervical Cancer Elimination Day of Action.

Founded around 2009 by Dr. Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu, the Medicaid Cancer Foundation has become a prominent NGO supporting cancer prevention, screening, and patient support services nationwide.

Cancer remains a leading cause of death in Nigeria, with an estimated 120,000 new cases and over 78,000 deaths annually, according to the Global Cancer Observatory. The foundation’s outreach includes annual awareness walks, free screening campaigns, and support for underserved communities.