The Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), in collaboration with the MedServe Cancer Center, has launched Nigeria’s first immunotherapy clinical trial for colorectal cancer.
Speaking at the press conference, the Chief Medical Director of LUTH, Prof. Wasiu Adeyemo, described the initiative as a landmark achievement.
“This launch represents the culmination of years of investment in infrastructure, training, and international collaboration. LUTH now has the expertise and systems required to conduct cutting-edge clinical research that meets global standards,” he said.
He added that the study is being conducted in partnership with the Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital (OAUTH), with international support from the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, which serves as sponsor and data coordinating centre, alongside support from the African Research Group for Oncology (ARGO) and the Thompson Family Foundation in the United States.
Providing the scientific overview, the Principal Investigator, Prof. Abdul Kareem Fatimah of LUTH’s Department of Molecular and Anatomic Pathology, highlighted the growing burden of colorectal cancer in Nigeria.
“Colorectal cancer is increasingly affecting Nigerians, including younger patients. A significant proportion of our patients have the mismatch repair–deficient subtype, which responds poorly to conventional chemotherapy but has shown promising results with immunotherapy in international studies,” she explained.
On the study design, she said: “The trial titled ‘PD-1 Blockade in Mismatch Repair–Deficient Colorectal Cancer’ will enroll 40 adult patients. It is a pilot, open-label study involving patients with metastatic colorectal cancer who are treatment-naïve and patients with localized stage II or III rectal cancer.”
She further clarified the treatment approach: “Immunotherapy works by enabling the body’s immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells. The anti-PD-1 therapy removes the brake that prevents immune cells from destroying tumour cells. Participants will be carefully monitored using imaging, laboratory tests, and standardized assessment methods.”
Also speaking, Dr. Eben Aje of MedServe Cancer Center, Co-Principal Investigator and Director for the project, addressed patient safety and implementation.
“While immunotherapy can cause side effects, they are generally manageable and often less severe than those associated with traditional chemotherapy. We have comprehensive safety protocols in place, and patient welfare remains our top priority,” he stated.
He added, “The medication will be provided at no cost to participants, and all enrolled patients will be insured for the duration of the trial.”
The study has received approval from the National Health Research Ethics Committee of Nigeria and the LUTH Health Research Ethics Committee, marking a significant step forward in expanding access to innovative cancer treatment and strengthening Nigeria’s clinical research capacity.