Rivers Government Opens Dr Peter Odili Cancer And Cardiovascular Centre, Offers Free Screening

The Rivers State Government has officially opened the Dr Peter Odili Cancer and Cardiovascular Centre in Port Harcourt for public use, commencing free screening for cancer and various cardiovascular diseases.
The disclosure was made by the Permanent Secretary of the Rivers State Ministry of Health, Professor Justinah Jumbo, during a cancer awareness walk held in Port Harcourt to mark the 2026 World Cancer Day.
The awareness walk, which began at the centre located in Rumuepirikom, formed part of activities to celebrate World Cancer Day and to sensitise residents about the availability of cancer screening and treatment services at the newly opened facility.
Professor Jumbo explained that the event was designed to inform the public that the centre is now fully operational for cancer screening and treatment. She noted that the facility, constructed by the immediate past administration in the state, is aimed at reducing the need for residents to travel abroad for cancer diagnosis and treatment.
Also speaking at the event, Permanent Secretary-designate and Director of Medical Services at the Ministry of Health, Dr. Vincent Wachuku, said the walk was not only to commemorate World Cancer Day but also to draw attention to the centre’s readiness to serve patients within and outside Rivers State.
“We are here today because it is World Cancer Day. Beyond the walk, we want to let everyone know that this centre is open and ready to provide services to people suffering from any form of cancer, whether they are from within the state, outside the state, or anywhere in the world,” he said.
Dr. Wachuku added that, as part of the launch activities, the government has approved free screening for breast cancer, cervical cancer, prostate cancer and other related conditions for an initial period. He noted that while the free services may not be permanent, future charges would be highly subsidised.
According to him, the government is also putting measures in place to support patients who may not be able to afford treatment at the centre.
The Chief Executive Officer of the facility, Tony Rahme, assured residents that the centre would provide services comparable to global standards. He stated that the hospital currently has 65 bed spaces and is staffed by a multidisciplinary team of experts from different countries, including Filipino nurses, to manage cancer and cardiovascular cases.
Rahme explained that the centre is equipped to handle advanced oncology surgeries, cardiovascular procedures, kidney treatment, cardiothoracic surgery, and a wide range of nephrology services.
He disclosed that over 70 to 100 individuals had already been screened as part of the commencement activities, reaffirming the hospital’s commitment to delivering quality healthcare services to all segments of society.

By: John Bibor