Nigeria records more than 127,000 new cancer cases and about 79,000 cancer-related deaths every year, according to a new health compendium.

The report says Nigeria needs about 280 radiotherapy machines to properly address the cancer burden but currently has fewer than 10 machines serving a population of over 200 million people.

The Nigerian Life Compendium, produced by Zikoko Citizen, highlights major gaps in the country’s healthcare system, including limited access to mental health services, emergency care and vaccine production.

The report also reveals that 28 of Nigeria’s 36 states have no federal psychiatric facility, leaving many people experiencing mental health crises with limited options for treatment.

It further highlights how healthcare challenges disproportionately affect women, young people, low-income families and people living in rural communities.

The contributors argue that stronger healthcare systems are needed so Nigerians do not have to rely on personal connections or extraordinary circumstances to receive basic medical care.