By Mustapha Salisu
The Kano State Ministry of Health has intensified efforts to combat cancer across the state, holding a strategic meeting with key stakeholders as part of activities marking World Cancer Day.
The advocacy meeting, chaired by the Cancer Desk Officer, Dr. Bashir Yunusa, brought together major actors in the state’s cancer response, including Mallam Salisu Yusuf, Chairman of the Nigeria Cancer Society (NCS), Kano State Chapter; Hajiya Hauwa Kakudi, Secretary of the NCS Kano Chapter; and Halisa, Founder of the Women Foundation for Cancer Early Detection.
Established six months ago, the Kano State Cancer Desk has been driving initiatives in public awareness through radio and television, partnerships with NGOs and philanthropists, and collaborative research with the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (NICRAT). Ongoing research focuses on ovarian and cervical cancers, as well as a broader West and East Africa study on delays in cancer presentation.
The Ministry has also recorded notable progress in capacity building, training over 120 healthcare workers across 60 health facilities. A referral system has been activated at Muhammad Buhari Specialist Hospital, supported by a navigation officer and a dedicated WhatsApp coordination platform to ensure smooth patient follow-up.
In strengthening coordination of care, the Ministry identified several high-volume facilities including Silver Crest and Accord Surgery, tertiary hospitals such as Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital (AKTH) and Dala Orthopedic Hospital, as well as secondary facilities like Murtala Muhammad General Hospital, Muhammad Abdullahi Wase Teaching Hospital, and Sir Sunusi Hospital. In 2025, 10 free radiotherapy slots were secured for indigent patients.
Looking ahead, the Ministry announced plans to establish a Kano State Cancer Registry to enhance data collection and a Cancer Support Fund to assist patients financially. An Annual Operational Plan was presented to the Director, outlining the establishment of screening clinics at the Muhammad Buhari Specialist Hospital.
The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to partnering with NGOs, urging formal recognition, registration, and integration of their activities into the state health system. It also approved the creation of a joint WhatsApp platform and inclusion of cancer-focused organizations in the Technical Working Group (TWG) for improved collaboration.
In addition, cervical cancer screening and HPV vaccination services will be provided at the Kano Comprehensive Treatment Centre (KCTC).
Stakeholders agreed to develop a clear framework outlining the roles of both government and NGOs to strengthen coordination and maximize impact.
This renewed collaboration reflects Kano State’s growing commitment to reducing the cancer burden through prevention, early detection, effective care, and strong partnerships — aligning with the global spirit of World Cancer Day.