Cancer Treatment Centres in Nigeria

Category : Tell us your Story | Sub Category : Tell us your Story Posted on 2026-03-06 13:34:16

Cancer care in Nigeria has been improving over the past few years, but there are still challenges like limited centres, long wait times, and shortages of equipment and staff. Despite this, major strides have been made, especially in government and private hospitals, to provide better access to diagnosis, treatment, and support for patients.

Government-Led Cancer Centres

The Nigerian government has launched a network of cancer centres across the country, primarily within federal and teaching hospitals. These centres are equipped to provide diagnostics, treatment, research, and training.

1. MedServe LUTH Cancer Centre (Lagos)

This centre is a partnership between the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA) and Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH).
Location: Idi-Araba, Lagos
Services:

• Chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and brachytherapy

• Patient counseling and support groups

• Nutrition clinics

• Virtual consultations
  Impact: Since opening in 2019, the centre has treated over 13,000 patients and sees about 2,500 new cases each year.

2. Federal Teaching Hospital Centres

Three new oncology centres were commissioned in 2025 as part of Nigeria’s plan to build 10 specialised cancer hospitals. These centres are located in:

• Katsina (North-West)

• Nsukka (South-East)

• Benin City (South-South)

Each centre is equipped with modern radiotherapy machines, CT simulators, advanced diagnostic imaging, and comprehensive outpatient and inpatient care. They are expected to serve around 2,000 cancer patients annually and provide diagnostic services to hundreds of thousands more.

Private and Semi-Private Centres

1. Lakeshore Cancer Centre (Lagos)

Part of the Lakeshore Hospital network, this centre offers:

• Radiation, surgical, and medical oncology

• Paediatric and neuro-oncology care

• Gastrointestinal, breast, and gynaecologic cancer treatment

• Nuclear medicine and palliative care

2. Lagoon Hospitals Oncology Department (Ikoyi, Lagos)

Provides patient-centered care focusing on early diagnosis, individualised treatment plans, and supportive care. They handle breast, prostate, and other cancers.

3. Nizamiye Hospital Oncology Department (Abuja)

Offers screening, chemotherapy, biopsies, pathology support, and palliative care. The hospital focuses on integrated care throughout the patient’s journey.

National Cancer Control Programme

Nigeria’s National Cancer Control Programme works to:

• Increase public awareness and prevention

• Promote early detection and screening

• Develop policies for affordable care

• Expand palliative and supportive care

The programme also ensures the availability of essential medicines and therapies and supports large-scale screening initiatives, especially for cancers like cervical cancer.

What Patients Can Expect

1. Diagnosis: Many cancers are detected late, so early screening is critical.

2. Centre choice: Public teaching hospitals serve most patients, but private centres can offer faster and more personalised care.

3. Services: Major centres now provide chemotherapy and radiotherapy, with some offering advanced surgery and supportive care.

4. Cost: Treatment can be expensive; government subsidies and private insurance help reduce out-of-pocket expenses.

Nigeria’s cancer care system is improving, but awareness, early detection, and access to quality treatment remain key challenges. With the growth of specialised centres and government support, patients now have more options than ever before.