Shinkafi-Bagudu becomes first African President of International cancer control union
Dr. Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu, a Nigerian doctor and former first lady of Kebbi State, has made history by being elected as the first African President-elect of the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC). Her term will run from 2024 to 2026.
This significant achievement has been celebrated as a milestone for the global cancer organization. Nigeria’s Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Muhammad Pate, praised Dr. Shinkafi-Bagudu’s accomplishment in a statement on X, calling it a “proud moment for Nigeria and Africa.” He highlighted her 30 years of dedicated service in healthcare, particularly as the founder of the Medicaid Cancer Foundation and her role as a Senior Advisor to the Coordinating Minister of Health.
Pate emphasized that her election reflects her character, competence, and credibility, stating, “Her leadership will undoubtedly shape the future of global cancer control and elevate the UICC’s mission to ensure greater accessibility, affordability, and availability of care for patients worldwide.”
Dr. Shinkafi-Bagudu’s vision includes strengthening cancer advocacy and fundraising, building capacity for community-based health workers, elevating patients’ voices in conflict and hard-to-reach areas, promoting equity in research and access to treatment, and amplifying support for childhood cancer patients.
Born on March 27, 1968, Dr. Shinkafi-Bagudu is a prominent global cancer advocate. She serves as a Senior Advisor on Women’s Health and Cancer in Nigeria and co-chairs the Nigerian Cervical Cancer Elimination Task Force. She has been elected three times to the UICC’s board of directors.
The Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) is the oldest and largest global cancer organization, uniting over 1,100 member organizations across 170 countries. It plays a crucial role in advancing cancer control worldwide, particularly through initiatives like the Access to Oncology Medicines (ATOM) Coalition, which aims to improve access to cancer medicines in low- and middle-income countries.
