Dr. Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu, a distinguished pediatrician, cancer advocate, and healthcare leader, has once again made history by being elected as the first African and only the fifth woman to serve as President of the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC). Her appointment, announced in October 2024, for the 2024-2026 term, marks a significant milestone in global health governance, particularly for cancer control, where her influence has been felt for decades.
A Trailblazer in Cancer Advocacy
Dr. Shinkafi-Bagudu has dedicated her career to the fight against cancer, particularly in under-resourced regions like Africa. As the founder of the Medicaid Cancer Foundation (MCF), she has been at the forefront of raising cancer awareness, improving early detection, and supporting patients in need of treatment in Nigeria. Her foundation has played a pivotal role in training healthcare workers, offering free screening programs, and providing financial aid for cancer patients.
Through her leadership and tireless efforts, MCF has become a beacon of hope for thousands of people, particularly women, who face the challenges of cancer with little to no support. Dr. Shinkafi-Bagudu’s impact, however, extends far beyond her foundation. During her tenure as the First Lady of Kebbi State (2015-2023), she was instrumental in developing the Kebbi State Strategic Plan for Cancer Control, which significantly bolstered cancer prevention and treatment services in the region.
Global Influence and Leadership
Dr. Shinkafi-Bagudu’s work has earned her a well-deserved reputation on the global stage. In addition to her role as President of UICC, she serves as Senior Advisor on Women’s Health and Cancer to Nigeria’s Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare. She also co-chairs the Nigerian National Taskforce on Cervical Cancer Elimination, which has been instrumental in vaccinating over 12 million girls against the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) in Nigeria. This initiative is a game-changer for cervical cancer prevention, as HPV is a leading cause of the disease.
Her contributions to cancer control have been recognized internationally, as she continues to collaborate with organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI) to provide access to cancer care in underserved regions. Notably, she has also been a global ambassador for the World Ovarian Cancer Coalition and has worked closely with the Global Initiative Against HPV and Cervical Cancer (GIAHC).
Historic Appointment and the Promise of Progress
President Bola Tinubu praised Dr. Shinkafi-Bagudu’s election to the UICC presidency, describing it as a landmark achievement not only for Nigeria but for Africa as a whole. In a statement, President Tinubu emphasized the significance of her election, which he believes will elevate cancer control efforts, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. The President also highlighted the allocation of N37.4 billion to Nigeria’s Oncology Initiative, aimed at establishing six cancer care centers across the country within the next two years. These centers, to be located in teaching hospitals in Benin, Zaria, Katsina, Enugu, Jos, and Lagos, are expected to revolutionize cancer treatment and provide much-needed access to care for patients across the nation.
A Vision for the Future
As the newly appointed President of the UICC, Dr. Shinkafi-Bagudu is expected to bring a fresh perspective to global cancer control. Her deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by developing nations positions her as a transformative leader capable of driving innovative approaches to cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment worldwide. She is poised to foster international collaborations that will strengthen healthcare systems and provide equitable access to cancer care for all, particularly in underserved regions.
The UICC, founded in 1933 and headquartered in Geneva, is the oldest and largest global membership organization dedicated to cancer control. With over 1,100 member organizations in 170 countries and territories, Dr. Shinkafi-Bagudu’s leadership will guide the UICC’s efforts to improve cancer outcomes, support research, and advance cancer policies that prioritize prevention and early detection.
Her historic election signifies not only a victory for African women in leadership but also a renewed hope for millions of people affected by cancer globally. Dr. Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu’s legacy of compassionate care, advocacy, and dedication to public health will continue to inspire and uplift the fight against cancer for years to come.
