Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, has congratulated Dr. Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu on her emergence as President of the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) for the 2026–2028 term, describing her achievement as a historic milestone for Nigeria and Africa.
Dr. Shinkafi-Bagudu, a Nigerian consultant paediatrician, cancer advocate and founder of the Medicaid Cancer Foundation, became the first African to lead the organisation since its establishment in 1933, following the UICC General Assembly on October 20, 2026.
“Dr. Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu has made Nigeria and Africa proud. Her emergence demonstrates the capacity of Nigerians to provide leadership on the global stage,” Governor Radda said.
He commended her contributions to cancer awareness, early detection and access to treatment, noting that her appointment could strengthen Africa’s voice in global cancer policy.
“In Katsina State, our administration is developing an Advanced Imaging and Cancer Centre at General Amadi Rimi Specialist Hospital to improve cancer diagnosis and treatment and reduce the need for patients to travel outside the state for specialised care,” Governor Radda said.
He noted that the administration had also supported breast cancer awareness campaigns and a cervical cancer screening initiative targeting 500 women through partnerships with health institutions and development partners.
“Her emergence highlights the importance of African expertise in shaping global health priorities. We hope her tenure will promote stronger international collaboration and make cancer prevention, diagnosis and treatment more accessible and affordable,” the Governor said.
Governor Radda expressed confidence that her leadership would advance cancer research, strengthen international partnerships and improve access to quality care, particularly for underserved communities.
“On behalf of the Government and people of Katsina State, I congratulate Dr. Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu on this historic achievement and wish her wisdom, strength and success in this important global responsibility,” he said.
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