The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), Roche Pharmaceuticals, and the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Abuja, have jointly launched a cost-sharing initiative aimed at reducing the financial burden of cancer treatment and improving access to oncology care for Nigerians, especially vulnerable populations.
The initiative is designed to increase the availability of high-cost oncology medications, enhance treatment outcomes, and protect patients from the prohibitive costs of cancer care. During the launch in Abuja, Ms. Linda Makwe of NHIA’s Department of Standards and Quality Assurance, highlighted that the programme reflects NHIA’s strategic role in healthcare financing and its commitment to Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
Makwe explained that Roche will cover 50% of the cost of monoclonal drugs and provide logistical support to ensure consistent drug availability, while NHIA will manage patient access and coordinate funding mechanisms. Patients will benefit from subsidized treatment costs, significantly reducing out-of-pocket expenses.
Mr. Funsho David, Team Lead for Oncology at Roche, emphasized that the partnership was committed to delivering innovative, affordable cancer care. He noted that sharing costs between Roche, NHIA, and patients makes vital oncology medications and associated services more accessible, shielding patients from catastrophic health expenses.
David commended FMC Abuja for its cooperation and urged the centre to expand its NHIA service accreditation from six to over 20, to provide a complete range of cancer services from diagnosis to rehabilitation.
Speaking on behalf of FMC Abuja’s Chief Medical Director, Prof. Saad Ahmed, Dr. Muftau Bioku, Director of Clinical Services, described the initiative as timely, stating that the high cost of cancer care has left many Nigerians without access to life-saving treatment.
The collaboration traces back to November 2021, when Roche and NHIA signed a Memorandum of Understanding to promote Universal Health Coverage through improved cancer care access. The original cost-sharing model ensured patients only paid a minimum amount, enabling them to afford both medications and related treatments.
In 2025, after a two-year pilot phase, the programme was reviewed and expanded to offer broader benefits. Enhancements include full treatment coverage, access for uninsured patients, patient navigation and counselling services, and immunohistochemistry testing for eligible individuals.
This expanded partnership marks a strategic step toward achieving Universal Health Coverage in Nigeria by providing sustainable access to affordable, effective cancer treatment and reducing the economic impact of cancer on Nigerian families.
ADEOLA KUNLE
