Nigeria’s Dr. Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu makes history as IGERIA’S DR. First African President of UICC

By Ejiro Umukoro

Abuja, Nigeria

In a landmark achievement, Nigeria’s Dr. Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu has been elected as the President of the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC), becoming the first African and fifth woman to lead the global organization.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu congratulated Dr. Shinkafi-Bagudu, praising her exceptional leadership and contributions to cancer control in Nigeria. “Her election is a testament to her competence, character, and the enormous talents that abound in Nigeria,” President Tinubu said.

Dr. Shinkafi-Bagudu, a renowned pediatrician and former First Lady of Kebbi State, brings over two decades of experience in public health and cancer control to her new role. Her leadership has been instrumental in establishing the Kebbi State Strategic Plan for Cancer Control and founding the Medicaid Cancer Foundation.

“Dr. Shinkafi-Bagudu’s election is a proud moment for Nigeria and Africa,” said Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President (Information & Strategy). “Her expertise and passion for cancer control will undoubtedly enhance global efforts to combat this devastating disease.”

Under Dr. Shinkafi-Bagudu’s leadership, Nigeria has made significant strides in cancer prevention, including:

• Vaccinating 12 million girls against Human Papillomavirus (HPV), a leading cause of cervical cancer
• Allocating N37.4 billion to establish six cancer centers nationwide

The Geneva-based UICC, founded in 1933, has over 1,100 member organizations in more than 170 countries and territories.

Dr. Shinkafi-Bagudu’s historic election is set to inspire a new generation of African leaders in global health.