Nigerian medical doctor and cancer advocate, Dr. Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu, has made history by becoming the first African and Nigerian to serve as president of the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC).
Dr. Shinkafi-Bagudu will lead the international cancer control organisation for the 2026–2028 term, marking a significant milestone for Nigeria and Africa in the global fight against cancer.
The Nigerian Cancer Society (NCS) announced her appointment in Abuja, describing it as a landmark achievement for the country, the African continent and the international cancer community.
In a congratulatory statement signed by its president, Professor Abidemi Omonisi, the society said her emergence reflected years of commitment to cancer advocacy, healthcare leadership and efforts to improve access to cancer prevention, early diagnosis, treatment and patient care.
Dr. Shinkafi-Bagudu, a paediatrician, is also the founder of the Medicaid Cancer Foundation, through which she has promoted cancer awareness, supported patients and advocated stronger healthcare policies to address shortcomings in Nigeria's cancer treatment system.
According to the NCS, her presidency provides an opportunity to bring greater attention to Africa's cancer-related challenges at the international level, particularly the difficulties faced by low- and middle-income countries in providing affordable and accessible healthcare.
The society expressed hope that her leadership would strengthen collaboration among cancer organisations, improve support for patients and survivors, and promote equal access to quality cancer services regardless of financial circumstances or geographical location.
Cancer remains a major public health concern across Nigeria and other African countries, where limited treatment facilities, high medical costs and delayed diagnosis continue to present significant challenges.
The NCS reaffirmed its commitment to working with local and international partners to reduce the impact of the disease through research, public education, advocacy and improved access to healthcare services.
The society congratulated Dr. Shinkafi-Bagudu on her appointment, expressing optimism that her leadership would help advance international cancer control efforts and ensure that Africa's healthcare priorities receive greater global recognition.