Profile of Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu, first African to lead UICC

News360 Nigeria archives the profile of Dr. Zainab Shinkafi Bagudu, first African president of the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC).

Dr. Zainab Shinkafi Bagudu, a renowned global advocate for cancer awareness with a focus on women’s health, has made history as the first African to be elected president of the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) for the 2024–2026 term.

She is the former First Lady of Kebbi State, Nigeria, and a dedicated consultant pediatrician.

As the founder of the MedicAid Cancer Foundation, she has been instrumental in advancing cancer treatment and awareness in Nigeria.

Dr. Bagudu is also a member of the Nigerian Cancer Society and the American Society for Clinical Oncology, further strengthening her influence in the field of oncology.

Profile overview

Name: Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu

Date of birth: March 27, 1968

Place of birth: Lagos State

Education: Ahmadu Bello University

Spouse: Sen. Abubakar Atiku Bagudu

Career: Medical expert

Background

Born to Rakiya Shinkafi and Umaru Shinkafi, a former police officer on March 27, 1968, in Lagos, Nigeria, Dr. Bagudu began her educational journey at Queens College, Lagos, graduating in 1984.

She pursued higher education at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, where she obtained her MBBS.

She furthered her studies in pediatrics with a Master’s degree, a Diploma in Tropical Child Health, and membership in the Royal College of Pediatrics and Child Health, London.

Family life

Dr. Zainab Shinkafi Bagudu is married to Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, Nigeria’s Minister of Budget and National Planning and the former governor of Kebbi State. The couple is blessed with two children.

Cancer advocacy

For over 15 years, Dr. Zainab Shinkafi Bagudu has been a leading advocate in the fight against cancer, focusing on its impact on women and children.

As the founder of the MedicAid Cancer Foundation, she has spearheaded various outreach initiatives, including the popular #WalkAwayCancer campaign, an annual nationwide march that promotes cancer prevention and awareness.

The foundation has played a crucial role in providing free diagnostic screenings and cancer treatments to individuals across Nigeria, making a significant impact in underserved communities.

Alongside her advocacy, Dr. Bagudu is a practicing consultant pediatrician, actively contributing to the improvement of healthcare both through her medical expertise and her philanthropic endeavors.

Her work has established her as a key figure in advancing cancer awareness and healthcare in Nigeria and beyond.

Professional affiliations

Dr. Bagudu serves on the board of directors for the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) and the advisory board of the Global Initiative Against HPV and Cervical Cancer (GIAHC).

She is a member of the Nigerian Cancer Society, the American Society for Clinical Oncology, and works with the WHO’s Global Breast Cancer Initiative Technical Working Group.

Her international advocacy includes her role as an Ambassador for the World Ovarian Cancer Coalition.

Awards

Dr. Zainab Bagudu’s efforts have earned her several accolades, including:

Merit Award from the Nigeria Medical Association (NMA) in 2018 for her untiring advocacy.

Silverbird Man of the Year award for Special Achievements in 2016.

Global Health Distinguished Leader Award.