Dr. Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu has made history as the first African to be elected President-elect of the Union for International Cancer Control, UICC, for the 2024-2026 term.
The announcement was made after the UICC General Assembly, held virtually on October 8, where full member organizations from around the world participated in the election.
Dr. Bagudu, a Nigerian consultant paediatrician and founder of the Medicaid Cancer Foundation, has been a powerful advocate in the fight against cancer. She holds key positions in numerous national and international cancer committees, including serving as Chairperson of First Ladies Against Cancer and Senior Adviser on Women’s Health and Cancer Advocacy to Nigeria’s Coordinating Minister of Health.
Grateful for the opportunity, Dr. Bagudu expressed her commitment to global cancer control, saying: “Thank you for your trust and confidence in me. I will be an interactive leader, working with all of you to accelerate global cancer control under UICC’s umbrella.”
The Minister of State, Health, Dr. Tunji Alausa, hailed her election as a proud moment for Nigeria and Africa, emphasizing the transformative changes her leadership will bring to cancer care globally. Professor Aliu Malami, Director-General of the Nigerian Cancer Research and Treatment Agency, echoed these sentiments, calling her victory a milestone for the global cancer community.
Dr. Bagudu is expected to officially assume her role in 2026, with widespread anticipation that her leadership will advance global efforts in cancer awareness, prevention, and treatment.
READ ALSO : Neptune Prime publisher to commission cancer clinic, school in Yobe
Also, President Bola Tinubu has extended heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu on her election as President of UICC, making her the first African and fifth woman to lead the prestigious global cancer organization.
In a statement released by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, on Wednesday, Tinubu described her election as a landmark achievement, reflecting her competence and dedication to the fight against cancer. He praised Dr. Shinkafi-Bagudu’s outstanding contributions to healthcare, both in Nigeria and internationally, and highlighted her pivotal role in shaping cancer awareness and control initiatives in the country.
“Her election not only elevates her personally but also highlights Nigeria’s growing influence in global health leadership, showcasing the exceptional talent that exists within our country,” President Tinubu remarked.
The President lauded her efforts during her time as First Lady of Kebbi State, where she spearheaded several impactful cancer initiatives, including the Kebbi State Strategic Plan for Cancer Control. He also commended her role as the founder of the Medicaid Cancer Foundation and her contributions to the success of Nigeria’s Human Papillomavirus vaccination campaign, which has helped vaccinate 12 million girls against cervical cancer.
In closing, Tinubu expressed confidence that Dr. Shinkafi-Bagudu’s leadership in her new role will further enhance cancer control efforts worldwide and advance global health outcomes, noting her impressive record of service and commitment to making a difference.
Dr. Shinkafi-Bagudu’s election is being celebrated as a significant milestone for Nigeria and Africa on the global health stage.
The Union for International Cancer Control, previously named International Union Against Cancer is a non-governmental organisation with some 1,180 member organisations in more than 170 countries.
UICC was founded in 1933 and is based in Geneva, Switzerland. Its member organisations feature cancer societies, governmental agencies, treatment and research centres, patient support groups and professional associations.
Credible News.ng
