The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, has commended the Medicaid Cancer Foundation for its ₦100 million disbursements to cancer patients and support organisations, describing it as a model of private-sector empathy driving social and economic impact.
Speaking at the Cervical Cancer Day Commemoration in Abuja, the minister said the initiative demonstrates how purposeful philanthropy can complement government efforts to build a healthier, more productive population.
He said: “This is more than a financial contribution. It is a statement of solidarity and shared responsibility.
“Every act of support for cancer patients strengthens our human capital base and reinforces national productivity.”
He highlighted that the Federal Government has increased health sector funding from just over 3% of the national budget in 2023 to 5.2% in 2025, underscoring President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to expanding access to quality health care.
Three of six planned regional oncology centres — in Katsina, Edo, and Enugu States — are now operational, bringing treatment closer to communities.
The Minister praised Dr. Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu, founder of the Medicaid Cancer Foundation, for her leadership in mobilising private resources for public good.
He said: “Private initiative, anchored in compassion and partnership, remains vital to achieving a sustainable healthcare system.”
He explained that “a healthy nation is the foundation for inclusive economic growth.”
The minister reaffirmed that the Tinubu administration will continue to create an enabling environment for private sector participation in health, ensuring that initiatives like Medicaid multiply across Nigeria.
