The Nigerian Cancer Society (NCS) has congratulated Dr Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu on becoming the first African to lead the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC), describing her appointment as a landmark achievement for Nigeria and the continent.
Shinkafi-Bagudu, a Nigerian paediatrician and cancer care advocate, has assumed the presidency of the international organisation for the 2026–2028 term.
In a statement issued in Abuja on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, NCS President, Professor Abidemi Omonisi, said her emergence marked an important moment in Africa’s participation in global health leadership.
Nigerian Cancer Society Hails Historic Appointment
Omonisi described Shinkafi-Bagudu’s new position as recognition of her longstanding contributions to cancer awareness, patient support and healthcare advocacy.
He said having an African lead the UICC would create opportunities to bring greater international attention to the cancer challenges facing Nigeria and other developing countries.
According to him, the development could help strengthen the voices of cancer patients and survivors while encouraging international partnerships to improve access to essential medical services.
He also expressed optimism that her leadership would support cancer organisations working to expand prevention, diagnosis and treatment services across Africa.
Why Shinkafi-Bagudu’s UICC Presidency Matters
The NCS president said the appointment was more than a personal achievement, describing it as an opportunity to advance the continent’s priorities in international cancer policy.
He noted that many low- and middle-income countries continued to face significant difficulties in providing affordable and accessible cancer care.
Omonisi believes Shinkafi-Bagudu’s presidency could help draw attention to these challenges and encourage stronger global cooperation.
He stressed the importance of ensuring that patients receive appropriate medical attention regardless of their financial circumstances or where they live.
Shinkafi-Bagudu’s Contributions to Cancer Advocacy
Shinkafi-Bagudu is the founder of the Medicaid Cancer Foundation, an organisation involved in cancer awareness, patient assistance and advocacy for improved access to treatment.
As a paediatrician, she has also supported initiatives aimed at improving public understanding of cancer and addressing barriers to medical care.
Omonisi acknowledged her contributions to cancer policy discussions, resource mobilisation and programmes designed to strengthen cancer services in Nigeria.
He said her years of advocacy and leadership had helped position her for greater responsibility within the international cancer control community.
Shinkafi-Bagudu’s journey into international cancer leadership developed through years of medical practice, public health advocacy and involvement in cancer control initiatives.
As a consultant paediatrician, she established Medicaid Radio-Diagnostics and Clinics in Abuja and later founded the Medicaid Cancer Foundation to support cancer awareness, prevention and access to treatment.
During her time as First Lady of Kebbi State, she participated in cancer control planning and efforts to expand human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination among girls.
In October 2024, UICC member organisations elected her president-elect during their General Assembly. She subsequently served alongside outgoing President Ulrika Årehed Kågström of Sweden in preparation for the 2026 leadership transition.
Her emergence is especially significant because cancer advocates have repeatedly raised concerns about inequalities in diagnosis, treatment, research funding and access to essential medicines across lower-income countries.
In an October 8, 2026 interview with The Guardian, Shinkafi-Bagudu discussed the importance of strengthening healthcare systems and expanding equitable cancer services.
NCS Calls for Stronger Cancer Prevention and Treatment
The Nigerian Cancer Society reaffirmed its commitment to working with healthcare professionals, government institutions, researchers and international organisations to improve cancer outcomes.
Omonisi said the society would continue supporting public education, research, professional training and advocacy for better cancer services.
He identified equitable access to prevention, early diagnosis, treatment and supportive care as important priorities requiring sustained attention.
The society also expressed its readiness to strengthen partnerships capable of addressing gaps in cancer care across Nigeria and the wider African region.
New Opportunities for African Cancer Control
Omonisi expressed confidence that Shinkafi-Bagudu’s tenure would encourage stronger cooperation among international health organisations and cancer advocacy groups.
He said the appointment offered an opportunity to ensure that African perspectives received greater consideration in decisions affecting global cancer prevention and treatment.
The NCS president further emphasised the need to reduce inequalities that prevent vulnerable patients from obtaining quality healthcare.
He congratulated Shinkafi-Bagudu on her achievement and expressed hope that her leadership would help advance cancer control efforts worldwide.
About the Union for International Cancer Control
The Union for International Cancer Control is an international organisation that brings together cancer societies, healthcare institutions, policymakers and advocacy organisations to address the global burden of cancer.
Its activities focus on promoting cancer prevention, improving access to care, strengthening partnerships and supporting coordinated international action against the disease.
Shinkafi-Bagudu’s emergence as UICC president for 2026–2028 represents a significant milestone for African participation in global cancer advocacy and leadership.
