Lagos varsity cancer centre begins operation in May

The Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA) and Lagos University Teaching Hospital cancer treatment centre recently commissioned by President Muhammadu Buhari will open its doors to patients on May 1.

Chief Medical Director of the Lagos University Teaching Hospital, Prof. Chris Bode in a statement said the centre’s ultra-modern equipment was undergoing necessary calibrations and fine-tuning in compliance with international standards before going into operation.

“The rigorous steps are a must before international and local regulatory bodies can certify any highend irradiating equipment for use on patients,” Prof. Bode said.

He said that the centre, financed by the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority, NSIA, is designed in compliance with international best practices, adding that requisite personnel such as radiotherapists, oncologists, physicists, and nurses are currently undergoing conversion training in readiness for the take-off of services at the centre.

The multi-billion cancer centre was established as a joint-venture partnership between the NSIA and LUTH to address the lack of adequate and comprehensive cancer treatment and management in the country.

“The centre covers over 1500 square meters, with two of its three linear accelerators already installed. It is equipped with a Treatment Planning System installed by Messrs General Electric; a Brachytherapy machine to treat cervical and prostate cancer, including other cancer-related ailments in hidden but approachable sites. In addition, the chemotherapy suite can accommodate up to 15 patients at any time,” the statement said.