Health ministry says new fund aims to reduce treatment burden; stakeholders urge transparency in disbursement

The federal government on Wednesday launched a dedicated cancer fund worth ₦50 million to assist Nigerians battling the disease, unveiling the initiative at an event in Abuja. The move, which comes as part of ongoing efforts to tackle rising cancer cases across the country, was announced by top officials from the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare.

According to the ministry, the fund is intended to provide financial relief for indigent patients who struggle to afford critical cancer treatments. The launch ceremony, held at the ministry’s headquarters, attracted medical professionals, civil society groups and patient advocates who have long pushed for increased government intervention in cancer care.

Cancer remains a major public health challenge in Nigeria, with thousands of new diagnoses annually and limited access to affordable care. Many families are forced into debt or abandon treatment due to high costs of chemotherapy, surgery and radiotherapy. The new fund, officials say, is designed as an initial step towards a more comprehensive national response that will ease this burden for vulnerable citizens.

Speaking during the unveiling, a representative of the health ministry noted that guidelines would be developed to ensure fair and transparent allocation of the ₦50 million. “We are committed to making sure this support reaches those who need it most,” the official stated. Stakeholders present welcomed the initiative but called for proper monitoring and involvement of patient groups in oversight. Some also appealed for an increase in future allocations given the scale of need across Nigeria.

The government indicated that applications for assistance under the new cancer fund will open within weeks, with hospitals nationwide expected to participate in nominating eligible patients. Health experts maintain that sustained funding and strong accountability mechanisms will be key if the programme is to make a real impact on cancer outcomes in Nigeria.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/health/health-news/888523-federal-govt-launches-fund-to-support-cancer-patients-pledges-n50-million.html

Move aims to provide support for gender-based violence survivors nationwide, with implementation to cover every LGA in Nigeria

The federal government has announced plans to set up safe spaces for survivors of gender-based violence (GBV) across all 774 local government areas in Nigeria. The initiative, revealed on Wednesday, is intended to address the rising cases of GBV and ensure that victims have access to support services at the grassroots level.

According to officials, the move will see dedicated centres established in every LGA, offering counselling, medical care, and legal assistance for survivors. While details on the timeline for rollout are yet to be provided, authorities say this step is part of a broader strategy to strengthen protection mechanisms and ensure justice for affected individuals nationwide.

Gender-based violence has remained a major concern in Nigeria, with advocacy groups and international partners consistently calling on government at all levels to prioritise survivor care and prevention. Many communities, especially in rural areas, currently lack adequate facilities or support structures for those affected by GBV.

Government representatives emphasised that the establishment of safe spaces forms part of ongoing efforts to implement national policies against sexual and gender-based violence. They said collaboration with state governments, traditional rulers, and civil society organisations will be key for effective delivery at the local level.

As preparations begin for the nationwide project, stakeholders are urging timely implementation and sufficient funding. Some advocates noted that monitoring and community engagement will be crucial to ensure the centres reach those most in need.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/health/health-news/888521-fg-to-establish-gbv-safe-spaces-in-all-774-lgas.html

Residents across Ebonyi State turn to charcoal for cooking as households struggle with rising cost of LPG

Charcoal sellers in Ebonyi State are witnessing a significant increase in business as the cost of cooking gas continues to rise, pushing many residents to seek cheaper alternatives. The surge in demand has been recorded across major markets in Abakaliki and surrounding areas since early June, with many families abandoning liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) due to unaffordable prices.

According to traders, the price hike for cooking gas began affecting sales at the start of the month, prompting more people to purchase charcoal for daily meal preparation. Market vendors said that while charcoal was previously patronised mostly by low-income earners, it is now being bought by civil servants and small business owners who can no longer cope with the high cost of gas refills.

The development has raised concerns among health experts and environmental advocates, who warn that increased charcoal use could worsen deforestation and air pollution in the region. However, many residents argue that the switch is necessary given current economic realities. “People just cannot afford cooking gas anymore. Some even come here daily for small portions of charcoal,” one Abakaliki market seller explained.

There has been no official response yet from Ebonyi State Government or federal authorities on efforts to address the spike in LPG prices or promote affordable clean energy options. As the situation persists, observers say more families may revert to traditional cooking methods unless urgent intervention comes from relevant agencies.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/more-news/888518-ebonyi-charcoal-dealers-record-boom-as-cooking-gas-costs-soar.html