The Federal Government has launched a training programme for 120 young researchers aimed at enhancing their capacity for cancer research and evidence-based implementation in Nigeria.

The project, Strengthening Institutional Capacity for Cancer Research and Implementation (SINCCAR), is designed to build sustainable institutional and human resources to address critical gaps in cancer research.

It will also promote policy reforms and foster collaborative networks to improve cancer outcomes nationwide.

During the opening ceremony in Abuja on Wednesday, Director-General of the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (NICRAT), Prof. Usman Aliyu, emphasised that the project was focused on empowering young researchers.

He added that the project was also preparing Nigeria for the development of new cancer interventions.

Mr Aliyu pointed out that Nigeria was facing a shortage of oncology researchers and noted that African countries contributed less than one per cent to global clinical trials, vital for developing new cancer therapies.

He said, “The interventions range from prevention and the design of effective screening tools to identifying young Nigerians with early-stage cancer. Research is also critical in developing diagnostic tools and novel therapies tailored to the country’s most common cancers.’’

He further explained that the project, which would be implemented nationwide across all geopolitical zones, would focus on genomic studies.

According to Mr Aliyu, genomics is crucial as it will enable researchers to create new therapies and precision medicine specific to the types of cancer prevalent in Nigeria.

Director of Research and Innovation, Dr Nwamaka Lasebikan, stated that SINCCAR represented a commitment to a new era of evidence-based decision-making, aiming to translate research findings into actionable public health interventions.

“We no longer want research to be conducted just for academic purposes or to fulfil promotion requirements. We want it to address local problems, contribute to the country’s social enterprise, and unlock the value chain within the research ecosystem,” she said.

Ms Lasebikan added that 120 participants were selected from more than 500 applicants nationwide, with 20 participants chosen from each of Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.

She noted, “The diverse group includes basic science researchers, medical doctors, laboratory scientists, and experts in computational sciences, ensuring a multidisciplinary approach to cancer research. This immersive training exposes participants to essential research methodologies and guides them through key priority areas such as genomics, health outcomes research, and implementation science. After the training, candidates will develop concept notes on what they have learned and formulate research questions addressing national issues.’’

Ms Lasebikan also noted that successful candidates would be involved in a year-long mentorship programme to implement their grants and build on the knowledge gained.

One of the participants and oncology nurse educator at the National Hospital, Abuja, Nana Lawal, shared her excitement about the training.

She said, “Our main objective is to improve nursing care for cancer patients by focusing on preventive research and symptom management.”

At the end of the training, participants will have gained strong qualitative and quantitative research skills, as well as hands-on experience in data management and analysis, among other competencies.

(NAN)