The National Hospital, Abuja, has signed a two-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center at Virginia Commonwealth University, United States, to strengthen cancer research and enhance clinical trials in Nigeria.
The two-year MoU, signed by the Chief Medical Director of the hospital, Prof. Muhammad Mahmud, and the Director of the Centre, Dr. Robert Winn, on Tuesday in Abuja, aims to develop sustainable collaboration in oncology, particularly in advancing clinical trials and training the next generation of scientists.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Winn said the partnership sought to establish a globally recognised model for equitable and impactful cancer research collaboration.
He pointed out that the cancer-related deaths in the U.S. had dropped by 36 per cent over the past three decades, largely due to clinical trial advancements, a success he hopes to replicate in Nigeria and Africa.
He said, “If we do this right, more Nigerians will live without cancer, and we may set an example of how fewer Africans die from the disease.”
He further outlined three key focus areas including, implementation of clinical trials, education and training of new scientists, and translating impactful research into patient care.
Winn also pointed out that even as the initial MoU spans two years, it would be reviewed and strengthened every two years to ensure long-term impact. He added that what the hope to build is a model for partnerships that is fair, collaborative, and globally effective.
He also suggested expanding the partnership to other Nigerian institutions, including the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (NICRAT), to amplify impact across the country.
On his part, Mahmud said the agreement is a milestone in the hospital’s pursuit of excellence in cancer care.
“This MoU is part of our strategy to elevate institutions that are already at a high standard. The National Hospital has become a leader in oncology within the West African sub-region,” he said.
Mahmud added that the collaboration would accelerate advancements in clinical care and cancer research, expanding the hospital’s reach and capabilities.