Katsina State Governor Radda Congratulates Zainab Bagudu For Emerging President UICC

Katsina State Governor, 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.

A statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed, says 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.

Her emergence followed the UICC General Assembly held on October 20, 2026.

Governor Radda 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 and promote greater attention to the continent’s healthcare needs.

The governor disclosed that his administration was developing an Advanced Imaging and Cancer Centre at the General Amadi Rimi Specialist Hospital to improve cancer diagnosis and treatment and reduce the need for patients to travel outside the state for specialised medical care.

He also highlighted the state government’s support for breast cancer awareness campaigns and a cervical cancer screening initiative targeting 500 women through partnerships with health institutions and development partners.

Radda said Shinkafi-Bagudu’s emergence demonstrated the importance of African expertise in shaping global health priorities, expressing hope that her tenure would promote stronger international collaboration and make cancer prevention, diagnosis and treatment more accessible and affordable.

The governor expressed confidence that her leadership would advance cancer research, strengthen international partnerships and improve access to quality cancer care, particularly for underserved communities.