September 29, (THEWILL) – The International Gynecologic Cancer Society (IGCS) has awarded, a former first lady of Kebbi State, Dr Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu, who is a global health leader in cancer care, with the prestigious 2024 Dicey Scroggins Distinguished Advocate Award. The award is presented annually to individuals who have made significant contributions to gynecologic cancer advocacy. Shinkafi-Bagudu, a pediatrician and board member of the Union for International Cancer Control, was recognised for her dedication to improving cancer care access and outcomes, particularly for women and children.
Under her leadership, Medicaid Cancer Foundation, MCF, which she founded, has become a significant force, providing free access to cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment support. Through her efforts, the foundation has demonstrably increased awareness by 25.8 per cent since 2008, reduced late-stage cancer presentations and provided affordable treatment options for countless individuals.
Shinkafi-Bagudu who is also a senior adviser to the Coordinating Minister of Health, has a long-standing commitment to cancer care beyond the foundation. During her time as a former First Lady, she spearheaded critical partnerships with the World Health Organisation (WHO), Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI) and the Kebbi State government. These collaborations led to the screening and treatment of over 40,000 women for cervical cancer. She was one of the facilitators for the introduction of the HPV vaccine for schoolgirls in Nigeria.
This landmark achievement has already benefited over 13 million girls. As a private citizen and a medical doctor, she has been at the forefront of caring for people suffering from cancer across the state through the foundation which she founded. Shinkafi-Bagudu, who is also a senior adviser to the Coordinating Minister of Health, has a long-standing commitment beyond the foundation.
