Nigerian doctor Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu has made history by becoming the first African president-elect of the International Union for Cancer Control (UICC).
Mrs Shinkafi-Bagudu, former first lady of Kebbi State in north-west Nigeria, is expected to serve a two-year term from 2024 to 2026.
The feat has been described by global healthcare stakeholders as a milestone for the global cancer organisation.
In a congratulatory statement for
The minister highlighted her 30 years of dedicated service in healthcare, particularly as founder of the Medicaid Cancer Foundation, her role as senior advisor to the Coordinating Minister of Health and on the Nigerian National Task Force for the Elimination of Cervical Cancer.
He commented: “This victory is a true testament to his character, competence and credibility. “His leadership will undoubtedly shape the future of global cancer control and elevate UICC’s mission to ensure greater accessibility, affordability and availability of care for patients around the world.”
She also outlined her vision which includes “strengthening cancer advocacy and fundraising, building the capacity of community health workers, elevating patient voices, especially in hotspot and hard-to-reach areas, advocating for equity in research and access to treatment and amplify support for childhood cancer patients.”
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“Nigeria is proud of your achievements, Dr Shinkafi-Bagudu, and we are confident that your leadership will have a lasting impact. Congratulations once again,” he added.
About Shinkafi-Bagudu
Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu, born March 27, 1968, is a global cancer advocate and founder of MedicAid Cancer Foundation (MCF).
She is the former First Lady of Kebbi State and currently serves as Senior Advisor on Women's Health and Cancer to the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare of Nigeria. She co-chairs the task force for the elimination of cervical cancer in Nigeria and has been elected to the board of directors of the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) three times.
About UICC
The Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) is the oldest and largest global cancer organization, bringing together more than 1,100 member organizations in 170 countries.
It plays a critical role in advancing cancer control around the world, especially through initiatives such as the Access to Oncology Medicines (ATOM) Coalition, aimed at improving access to cancer medicines in low-income and low-income countries. medium.