The Nigerian Cancer Society (NCS) has renewed calls for stronger government intervention and broader stakeholder support to tackle the growing burden of cancer among adolescents and young adults in Nigeria.
The appeal followed the death of popular Nollywood actor Alexx Ekubo, who reportedly passed away at the age of 40 after battling advanced metastatic kidney cancer.
In a statement signed by the National Director of Publicity of the NCS, Bashir Mohammed Ranccas, the organisation described Ekubo’s death as a painful reminder that cancer is increasingly affecting younger people, not just the elderly.
The society noted that the late actor was deeply involved in cancer awareness campaigns and used his platform to support patients and advocate for increased public awareness across the country.
Referencing a statement released by Ekubo’s family on Instagram, the NCS stressed the urgent need for more research into cancers affecting young Nigerians, improved awareness campaigns, early diagnosis, and timely access to treatment.
According to the organisation, the rising cases among young people highlight significant gaps in cancer prevention, screening, and healthcare access in Nigeria.
The NCS therefore appealed to corporate organisations, development partners, philanthropists, government agencies, and well-meaning Nigerians to collaborate in the fight against cancer through awareness programmes, screening initiatives, research funding, treatment support, and policy advocacy.
The society also urged Nigerian youths to adopt healthier lifestyles by avoiding excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, substance abuse, and unsafe sexual practices. It further encouraged regular screening for cancer-linked infections such as Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), and HIV.
The organisation added that through its youth-driven initiative, the Youth Coalition Against Cancer (YOCAC), it has continued to mobilise young Nigerians to champion cancer prevention, awareness, and early detection efforts nationwide.