The University of Benin Teaching Hospital, today 29th June 2026, has taken another significant step towards strengthening cancer care with the launch of a Patient Navigation Programme at its Cancer Centre, supported by Roche Products Ltd., a multinational pharmaceutical company committed to improving cancer care across Africa.
The initiative is being implemented under Roche’s Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, aimed at strengthening cancer care delivery in Nigeria through strategic collaborations with healthcare institutions.
The programme focuses on improving cancer awareness, early detection and diagnosis, access to medicines, capacity building for healthcare professionals, and comprehensive support for patients throughout their care journey.
In her remarks, the Chief Medical Director, University of Benin Teaching Hospital, Prof. Idia Nibokun Ize-Iyamu, expressed appreciation to Roche Products Ltd. for extending the initiative to UBTH and reaffirmed the Hospital’s commitment to delivering quality, patient-centred cancer care.
She noted that the Patient Navigation Programme would further strengthen the Hospital’s comprehensive cancer services by ensuring that patients receive the guidance and support needed throughout their treatment journey. She also commended Roche Products Ltd. for its commitment to improving cancer outcomes through collaboration, innovation, and capacity building.
Also speaking, the Oncology Ecosystem Enabler at Roche Products Ltd., Pharm. Funsho David, in his remarks stated that the Patient Navigation Programme is designed to provide holistic support for cancer patients from diagnosis through treatment and follow-up care, ensuring they receive the guidance and coordinated services required for better treatment outcomes.
He explained that the initiative forms part of Roche’s commitment to complementing Africa’s vision for improved breast cancer care through the Africa Breast Cancer Ambition (ABCA) by working with governments and healthcare institutions to expand access to quality cancer services.
According to Pharm. David, another key component of the initiative is improving access to cancer treatment through the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), making quality cancer care more accessible and affordable for patients.
The launch of the Patient Navigation Programme reflects UBTH’s continued commitment to providing comprehensive, patient-centred cancer care through strategic initiatives that enhance access to quality healthcare and improve outcomes for patients.
