Elimination (NTF-CCE), has formally validated the costed National Cervical Cancer Elimination Plan, marking a major step toward eradicating cervical cancer as a public health threat in the country.
The validation took place at a national workshop held in Abuja, which brought together representatives from federal and state ministries of health, academic institutions, development partners such as the World Health Organisation (WHO) and UNICEF, and members of the NTF-CCE.
In a statement signed by Ayo Osinlu, Co-Chair of the Media and Communications Committee of the NTF-CCE, the plan was described as a strategic alignment with the WHO’s 90-70-90 targets a global framework for cervical cancer elimination. The plan is set to be finalised and implemented from 2025 to 2030.
During the workshop, participants took part in thematic breakout sessions to validate cost assumptions for various components of the plan, including prevention, diagnostics, treatment, and public awareness generation. These discussions culminated in a harmonised plenary session where consensus was reached on targets, cost structures, and implementation strategies.
Professor Sani A. Malami, Secretary of the NTF-CCE, presented the plan, highlighting Nigeria’s significant progress, particularly the vaccination of over 13 million girls against Human Papillomavirus (HPV) a key risk factor for cervical cancer.
He described the strategy as comprehensive, encompassing HPV vaccination, cervical screening, treatment services, health workforce development, and a robust monitoring and evaluation system.
“Every $1 invested in cervical cancer elimination could yield up to $26 in societal return,” Prof. Malami said, emphasizing both the moral and economic imperative of the initiative.
The newly validated plan evolved from the earlier National Strategic Plan for Prevention and Control of Cancer of the Cervix (2023–2027) and reflects Nigeria’s intensified efforts to curb one of the most preventable yet deadly cancers affecting women.
The NTF-CCE, chaired by former Minister of Health Prof. Isaac Adewole, is responsible for providing expert guidance, mobilising resources, and driving the national strategy. It includes high-profile members such as global cancer advocate Dr. Zainab Shinkafi Bagudu (Vice Chair), Prof. Malami, and veteran health journalist Chief Moji Makanjuola, among others.
