The Federal Government is making strides to improve access to advanced healthcare by partnering with the prestigious Mayo Clinic to establish Liver Transplant Centres in two Federal Tertiary Health Institutions across Nigeria.
Dr. Iziaq Salako, Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, made the announcement via his official X handle following a recent visit to the Mayo Clinic Comprehensive Cancer Centre in Rochester, Minnesota.
Salako led a Nigerian delegation to discuss areas of collaboration in cancer care, liver transplant services, and cutting-edge medical research.
The initiative aims not only to expand Nigeria’s capabilities in liver transplantation but also to strengthen the country’s medical research and cancer treatment infrastructure.
During the visit, Salako met with Professor Folakemi Odedina, a Nigerian-American and Deputy Director of Community Outreach and Engagement at the Mayo Clinic Comprehensive Cancer Centre.
He also held a virtual session with Cheryl Willman, Executive Director of the Centre, who was absent due to a bereavement.
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“This partnership is geared toward advancing cancer research, precision medicine, and health equity for Nigerians and the global Black community,” Salako said.
He noted that the collaboration would focus on public health initiatives, policy development, capacity building, and clinical trials.
Salako added that Nigeria’s National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment would serve as a key vehicle in implementing the shared goals between both institutions.
He emphasized the significance of this move in improving healthcare outcomes and bridging global disparities in access to life-saving treatments.