This is not an article with usual demand or deliberation for infrastructural deficit that has long plagued all the five local government Areas of Kwara North. Nor is it about the worsening state of the roads, which government officials have often described as a “death sentence” for anyone forced to travel them. But let me not get distracted or digress too far. After all, we wouldn’t want the global community to think that our own too much for Nija. So, let’s get straight to the point.
Today marks the 25th anniversary of World Cancer Day, a global event dedicated to raising awareness, educating the public on cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment, and galvanizing stakeholders to take action. It’s a day set aside for reinforcing the global commitment to early detection and improving treatment options for those living with this life-threatening disease.
Yet, 25 years on, in Nigeria, up until now, we are still raising awareness; still fighting for the most basic of healthcare facilities. Kwara State is among many States in Nigeria with less commitment to cancer care. Amazingly, There is no specialized cancer center for the entire Kwara North region, out of the three districts. In fact, many communities in the region are hardly aware of what cancer is. Some even believe it’s caused by spiritual attacks. Meanwhile, countries across the world are celebrating significant achievements of lower cancer rates, better health outcomes, as a result of years of investment in cancer care. And here we are, still fighting for the bare minimum.
In 2022, the World Health Organization reported that cancer was the leading cause of death globally, accounting for around 10 million deaths. Nigeria, unfortunately, is among the countries with the highest death toll. In the same year, Nigeria saw approximately 127,000 new cancer cases, with about 79,000 cancer-related deaths. By 2050, the number of cancer cases in Nigeria is expected to rise by 77%, a grim projection that should serve as a wake-up call to all.
Despite these staggering numbers and decades of awareness campaigns, it’s disheartening that not a single facility has been established to cater to the cancer-related needs of Kwara North. The region with existential senator, federal house of representative among many political gladiators. Cancer, a disease with no specific cause, that respects neither status nor warning signs, continues to ravage communities. It takes 1 in 9 men and 1 in 12 women down a path of suffering and, too often, death. In fact, 1 in 5 people will face cancer in their lifetime. Yet, for Kwara North, nothing has been done, not even a glimmer of hope in sight.
For victims and their families, cancer is more than just a medical condition; it is a deeply personal battle. Every patient’s story is one of pain, and anguish. Families are not just bystanders- they bear the emotional and financial burdens that come with the disease, burdens that could have been alleviated by proper healthcare infrastructure and support.
As with many development initiatives, Kwara North has been left behind in the provision of clinical cancer care. The concentration of cancer treatment facilities remains in Ilorin, forcing residents of Kwara North to make herculean efforts to access care. On this World Cancer Day, we must confront the reality: Kwara North is indeed unique in its story of development neglect. But today, we stand united in our call for equality in healthcare.
We urge political leaders, stakeholders, and private individuals to recognize the plight of the people of Kwara North. It is time to facilitate the establishment of a cancer center in the region, one that can serve as a beacon of hope and a symbol of healthcare equality for all.
Let World Cancer Day 2025 mark the beginning of a new chapter for Kwara North, one in which its residents no longer suffer in silence, but receive the care and support they deserve.
Ibraheem Olasunkanmi Qoseem is a Medical Laboratory Scientist writes from Moro LGA. He can be reached via: 08084683622 or ibraheemqoseem100@gmail.com