The Federal Government of Nigeria has urged prospective residents of the National Postgraduate Medical College (NPMC) and stakeholders in healthcare education to take part in transforming oncology care in the country.
The Minister of State for Health, Dr. Tunji Alausa made the call during a courtesy visit by the co-founder and CEO of Marcelle Ruth Cancer Centre and her team in Abuja. Alausa congratulated Marcelle Ruth Cancer Centre & Specialist Hospital on their accreditation by the National Postgraduate Medical College (NPMC).
Represented by his special adviser on research and innovation, Dr. Lolade Adeyemi, the minister emphasised that the initiative aims to cultivate a new generation of specialists who will contribute to enhanced patient outcomes and the overall advancement of medical education.
He also noted that the collaboration with the Federal Government represents a significant step forward in addressing the increasing need for specialised oncology care in Nigeria. Alausa stressed the importance of developing a robust healthcare system equipped with skilled professionals dedicated to oncology due to the rising incidence of cancer.
The program offers an exceptional opportunity for healthcare residents to receive advanced training and expertise in oncology. Alausa invited stakeholders in healthcare education to support and contribute to the initiative to ensure its success and sustainability. He emphasised that together, they can make a lasting impact on oncology care in Nigeria, improving patient outcomes and advancing medical education for future generations.
Dr. Elebute-Odunsi expressed her joy at being the first private hospital in the country to achieve accreditation in the field of Oncology. She announced the launch of a postgraduate clinical and radiation oncology training programme aimed at increasing the number of oncology specialists in the country.
She highlighted that this initiative aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 17, focusing on capacity building. Elebute-Odunsi extended gratitude to the Minister of State for Health for his pivotal role in integrating the private sector into post-graduate training initiatives and also appreciated the Chief Medical Director of Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), Prof. Wasiu Lanre Adeyemo and College Registrar of the National Postgraduate College of Nigeria, Prof. Fatiu Abiola Arogundade for their support in achieving accreditation.
The partnership with LUTH ensures a high standard of training, bridging gaps and upholding excellence. Marcelle Ruth Cancer Centre aims to craft a curriculum meeting international benchmarks, providing comprehensive cancer care and professional development for new oncologists.
Prospective residents and stakeholders are encouraged to monitor the hospital’s website for updates on the selection criteria and application process and to join in shaping the future of oncology care in Nigeria and beyond.
