Seeks N100 million for research, treatment of patients
The Co-ordinator of Lifeline Advocacy and Development Initiative, Bimbo Oloyede, yesterday, stressed the need for research and local solutions to tackle the menace of cancer in the healthcare sector.
Oloyede, a veteran Nigerian broadcaster and journalist, also emphasised the need for the African continent to develop its drugs for medications, noting that local solutions would be an affordable alternative for patients. She spoke at a briefing in Lagos organised to raise N100 million for research and treatment of patients with cancer in public hospitals to mark her 70th birthday on March 15, 2024.
“Some members of my family have struggled with an ailment known as cancer; sometimes winning and sometimes losing, but thankfully, in those trying times, when we reached out to friends, we received the help we needed to cope with the situations one by one.
“As I speak, there are people who have cancer but have neither access to treatment nor any hope of sustainable care. I have spoken with relevant stakeholders, oncologists and health practitioners and new cases are being diagnosed at an alarming rate every clinic day in all the public hospitals. I am, therefore, convinced that I must do something significant to make life more comfortable for cancer patients.
“I don’t see any reason why Nigeria cannot produce its own drugs and the cure. Who says the cure must come beyond the shores of Africa.
“The more time is dedicated to research gives us the better opportunity to provide medication at a more affordable price. Most of the medications for cancer are imported. What is imperative is that research should be done so that we can find local solutions to cancer treatment.
“Let’s dedicate funds, time and creativity to research so we can come up with medication that can be used locally,” she further said. According to her, though the government has its role to play in the healthcare sector, the people also have their responsibilities.
She said: “I think it’s important that we partner to fight the disease. Public and private partnership would go a long way.
“To make diagnosis and treatment days more agreeable for cancer patients, I have set up a fund-raising committee and I want it to be transparent and efficient. It is made up of media professionals and chaired by the CEO of Women Radio, TounOkewale-Sonaiya.
“To chair the proceedings of the event is Emeka Anyaoku, while former President Olusegun Obasanjo would support as the Father of the Day.”
