Nigeria is intensifying its fight against cancer with the official launch of a new awareness, prevention, and treatment initiative, the “NICRAT-AACR APT for Cancer Campaign.”
Abuja, Nigeria — November 28, 2025
Nigeria is intensifying its fight against cancer with the official launch of a new awareness, prevention, and treatment initiative, the “NICRAT-AACR APT for Cancer Campaign.”
The project, unveiled in Abuja, is designed to strengthen community-based cancer control across the Federal Capital Territory’s six Area Councils.
As a pilot programme, the initiative will train 60 frontline health workers in cancer advocacy, early screening, and effective referral pathways. The primary focus will be on breast and prostate cancers, two of the most prevalent cancers affecting Nigerian women and men respectively.
Nigeria continues to battle a rising cancer burden, with a significant number of cases diagnosed at advanced stages. Health experts attribute this trend to low public awareness, limited access to screening services, and gaps in early detection systems. The new campaign aims to confront these challenges head-on by empowering health workers who serve as the first point of contact in many communities.
According to the project team, the APT for Cancer Campaign will not only improve early detection rates but also boost community trust in cancer care services and ultimately enhance treatment outcomes. By bridging knowledge gaps and expanding access to preventive screening, the initiative is expected to contribute significantly to reducing cancer-related deaths in Nigeria.
The launch marks a crucial step toward a more informed and proactive public health response to cancer, offering renewed hope for better survival rates and healthier communities across the FCT.
