MAAUN, Kano Cancer Centre Partner to Train Nurses in Oncology

The Maryam Abacha American University of Nigeria has partnered with the Kano Cancer Treatment Centre to begin specialised oncology training for nurses, in a move expected to improve cancer care across Northern Nigeria.

The collaboration aims to address the shortage of cancer specialists in the region by equipping nursing graduates and practising nurses with the skills needed for effective cancer diagnosis, treatment, and patient support.

In a statement released on Saturday, the university explained that the initiative builds on an earlier Memorandum of Understanding between both institutions focused on strengthening cancer management, research, and public awareness.

MAAUN President Mohammed Israr described the partnership as a strategic step toward building local capacity for specialised cancer treatment, adding that it would help develop a skilled healthcare workforce capable of improving patient outcomes.

The Chief Executive Officer of the Kano Cancer Treatment Centre, Nafisa Abdu, noted that the programme would allow nurses to receive oncology training locally without having to travel to other states for certification.

She also said the collaboration would support awareness campaigns on breast cancer and HPV, as well as promote prevention strategies and improved care approaches.

The Provost of MAAUN’s School of Medicine, Rayyan Garba, described the initiative as timely, citing the persistent shortage of oncologists and cancer care professionals in the region.

He added that expanding specialist training within the region would help reduce treatment delays and improve access to quality care for cancer patients.

According to the university, the programme will also create internship and industrial training opportunities for students pursuing medical and health-related courses.

MAAUN’s Vice President for Administration, Habib Awais Abubakar, reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to supporting the training programme, while the Dean of the School of Health Sciences, Kabir Mustapha, said the initiative would enable nursing students to graduate with specialist oncology skills.

Both partners expressed optimism that the programme would enhance cancer awareness, promote early detection, and lead to better treatment outcomes for patients in Northern Nigeria.