FG To Harness AI, Digital Tools To Strengthen Cancer Control
The Nigerian government is integrating artificial intelligence, telemedicine, and data analytics to improve cancer care and diagnosis. Minister of State for Health Dr. Iziaq Salako emphasized that these digital tools are essential for overcoming geographical barriers and strengthening clinical decision-making.
Why it matters
This initiative highlights the growing role of digital health infrastructure in addressing healthcare disparities and improving patient outcomes in developing nations.
The Federal Government says it will continue to harness digitalisation, artificial intelligence, telemedicine, molecular diagnostics, precision medicine and data analytics to strengthen cancer prevention, diagnosis and treatment.
The Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr Iziaq Salako, said this on Tuesday in Abuja at the opening of the 2026 International Cancer Week.
The week has the theme: “United Against Cancer: Building Resilient, Innovative and Equitable Systems Across the Cancer Care Continuum.”
Salako said the government was also strengthening cancer registries and using data analytics to improve cancer control, while ensuring that emerging technologies addressed gaps in access to specialist services and clinical decision-making.
“The first priority under this year’s theme is resilience- building cancer-care systems that can withstand shocks, adapt and sustain essential services.
“This requires investment in infrastructure, equipment, diagnostics, medicines, human resources and sustainable financing.”
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