The Civil Society for Cancer Advocacy and Prevention (CiSCAP) has taken a major step in strengthening the fight against cancer in Nigeria with the successful hosting of its inaugural national conference in Jos, Plateau State. The conference, themed “Cancer Advocacy and Prevention in Our Society,” drew delegates from the 19 Northern States and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.
The event was formally declared open by the Plateau State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Nicholas Baamlong, who represented the Executive Governor, His Excellency, Caleb Mutfwang. Delivering the Governor’s message, Dr. Baamlong commended CiSCAP for its bold initiative and emphasized the state government’s commitment to improving cancer care and strengthening community-level awareness. While welcoming participants, he encouraged them to explore the cultural wealth of Plateau State and savour the famous “Plateau Potato,” often mistakenly referred to as Irish potato.
In his opening address, CiSCAP National Coordinator, Mr. Tokbish Yohanna Mizak, expressed profound gratitude to God for the successful gathering. He lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the establishment of six zonal cancer centres across the country, describing the move as a timely intervention that will save countless Nigerian lives. He further applauded the member organizations present, urging them to maintain their dedication as their collective leadership remains vital to shaping Nigeria’s healthcare landscape.
Pastor Ejiogu Vitus Chibueze, a Board of Trustees member who also served as Master of Ceremony, reminded participants of the urgent need for regular medical check-ups. Speaking in his capacity as Executive Director of Rosana Empowerment Foundation (REF) in Bauchi, he urged Nigerians to take their health seriously, stressing that early detection remains the most powerful tool in combating cancer.
Also speaking, the Executive Director of Family Healthcare Foundation, Mrs. Mary Noktlik Ashenanye, raised concerns about the rising number of cancer-related deaths. She challenged CiSCAP members to intensify community outreach and public education. Complementing this, Hajia Tawa-Kalitu I. Abdulrahman, Chairperson of FOMWAN Health Committee, Plateau State, called for unity and collaborative efforts to ensure that quality cancer care becomes accessible to every Nigerian, regardless of location or social status.
Ambassador Grace Maikudi of Langa Women Development Initiative, Bauchi, emphasized the importance of developing stronger national strategies that enhance prevention, screening, and patient support systems. Similarly, Mr. Simon Agada of the CiSCAP Kaduna Chapter expressed delight at the conference turnout and prayed for even greater participation in subsequent editions.
The conference featured technical sessions, networking meetings, and commitments to intensified grassroots advocacy. Participants resolved to strengthen partnerships with government, traditional institutions, and the media while advancing policies that support early detection, reduced treatment costs, and improved access to cancer services nationwide.
CiSCAP reaffirmed its dedication to mobilizing communities, empowering advocates, and ensuring that the fight against cancer remains a national priority.
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