President Bola Tinubu extended his congratulations to Dr. Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu on her recent appointment as President of the Union for International Cancer Control, marking her as the first African and fifth woman to lead the organization. Shinkafi-Bagudu, a pediatrician and former First Lady of Kebbi State, secured the position on October 8.
Tinubu, through a statement from his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, commended her election as a significant milestone, highlighting her expertise and integrity. He emphasized that her achievement showcases Nigeria’s increasing influence in global health leadership and underscores the nation’s pool of talented individuals.
Recognizing Shinkafi-Bagudu’s notable contributions to Kebbi State and Nigeria, Tinubu praised her leadership in initiatives like the First Ladies Cancer Initiative and the development of the Kebbi State Strategic Plan for Cancer Control during her tenure as First Lady. Shinkafi-Bagudu is the founder of the Medicaid Cancer Foundation and holds key advisory roles in the health sector.
Tinubu expressed optimism in Shinkafi-Bagudu’s capacity to utilize her new position to enhance cancer control efforts and global health initiatives. The Union for International Cancer Control, headquartered in Geneva and established in 1933, has a membership exceeding 1,100 organizations across more than 170 countries and territories.