…Boosts Healthcare Delivery in Enugu
Date: 23 June, 2026
By Jane Daniel
The Federal Government has launched a support fund for cancer patients in the South-East, with Enugu State hosting the regional flag-off of the Social Determinants of Health Fund and disbursement programme.
The South-East flag-off was aimed at supporting cancer patients across the zone, in a major step toward easing the burden of treatment and strengthening access to care for vulnerable citizens.
The official launch was performed by the Minister of State for Health, Dr. Iziaq Salako, represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Health, Daju Kachollom, who described the initiative as a timely intervention in the fight against cancer and other life-threatening illnesses.
In his opening remarks, the Enugu State Commissioner for Health, Prof George Ugwu, highlighted the remarkable strides of Gov. Peter Mbah’s administration in repositioning the health sector for quality service delivery.
Ugwu pointed to key health projects and reforms, including the ongoing construction of the 300-bed Enugu International Hospital, improved healthcare infrastructure and manpower recruitment and development in the state.
The commissioner reiterated the state government’s commitment to building a resilient and accessible healthcare system capable of meeting the needs of the people.
The event also drew strong support from critical stakeholders in the health, traditional and religious institutions.
The Chief Medical Director of the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital (UNTH), Ituku/Ozalla, Prof Obinna Onodugo , underscored the importance of collective action in tackling the cancer burden in the country.
Speaking, the Chairman of the Enugu State Traditional Rulers Council, Igwe Samuel Asadu, commended the government and health authorities for prioritising the welfare of cancer patients and vulnerable families in the South-East.
A cancer survivor, who spoke on condition of anonymity, emotionally lamented the financial toll of cancer treatment and management on patients.
He noted that the fund would bring “Renewed Hope” and relief to many patients struggling to survive the disease.
Speaking, the South-East Liaison of the National Cancer Control Programme Technical Working Group, Emeritus Prof Ifeoma Okoye, described the programme as a landmark intervention
Okoye said that the fund would not only support cancer patients financially but also deepen awareness, strengthen access to treatment and reaffirm government’s resolve to address the social determinants that continue to shape health outcomes across the country.
