Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex (OAUTHC) in Ile-Ife hosted the 10th edition of the Annual International Oncology Symposium, organized by the African Research Group for Oncology (ARGO).
The event, themed “Strategies to Improve Oncologic Outcomes in Nigeria: Focus on Breast, Colorectal, Hepatobiliary, and Cervical Cancers,” took place on September 25-26, 2024, at the Clinical Skills Lecture Theatre.
The symposium commenced with an opening address from Professor Olusegun Alatise, National Director of ARGO, who acknowledged the dignitaries and participants. He highlighted ARGO’s mission to enhance treatment paradigms through research training, noting that the organization has trained 34 clinicians and sponsored seven postdoctoral researchers, along with 45 doctors benefiting from its fellowship program.
The Chief Host, Vice Chancellor of Obafemi Awolowo University, Professor Adebayo Bamire, represented by Deputy Vice-Chancellor Professor Yomi Daramola, emphasized the public health challenges posed by cancer in Nigeria. He pointed out that fragile healthcare systems and patients’ delays in seeking care contribute to the crisis. He also noted the university’s leadership in cancer research, collaborating with institutions in New York and North America.
Professor John Okeniyi, Chief Medical Director of OAUTHC, the Co-Chief Host represented by Deputy CMAC Professor Akinkunmi Komolafe, spoke about the financial challenges in cancer care. He underscored ARGO’s commitment to professional training and capacity development for healthcare professionals, particularly pathologists, to enhance human resource productivity in the fight against cancer.
In the keynote address, Dr. Tolulope Adewole, Managing Director of NSIA Advanced Medical Services Limited, represented by Dr. Adedayo Joseph, discussed “Strategies for Improved Oncologic Outcomes in Nigeria.” She stressed the importance of technology, data accessibility, and expertise in managing oncologic cases. Dr Joseph cited significant achievements, including 250,000 imaging and laboratory tests conducted and 10,000 patients treated, as evidence of their commitment to research and data management.
The event also featured a speech from Dr. Usman Malami, Director General of the Nigeria Institute of Cancer Research, who highlighted the need for integrated healthcare approaches to improve oncologic outcomes. In her goodwill message, Dr. Modupe Elebute, CEO of Marcelle Ruth Cancer Center, encouraged collaboration, training, and research. Dr Modupe Elebute, Dr Tolulope Adewole and Dr Usman Malami were all presented a Certificate of Recognition. The symposium concluded with a vote of thanks from Dr. Adeleye Omisore, who expressed gratitude to all participants and contributors for their support in making the event successful.
