Zainab Bagudu Gets Nomination For Cancer Union Presidency

Wife of governor Atiku Bagudu of Kebbi state, Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu has been nominated for the presidency of the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC).

The UICC represents the world's major cancer societies, ministries of health and patient groups.

The union also houses researchers, influencial policy makers and experts in prevention and control of cancer. 

Other influencial persons nominated for the position include Ulrika Kagstrom of Sweden and Daiming Fan of China.

The Kebbi First Lady pledged to address cancer inequities globally if elected president.

She added that there is the need to turn a new leaf globally in the fight against cancer. 

As reported Punch, Shinkafi-Bagudu said: “If I am fortunate enough to become your President, with your support, I am the person that will drive that change.

“Although the COVID-19 pandemic amplified the conversation on health inequalities, Cancer is still struggling to be part of discussions on the response.

“As President, I will focus on accessibility, affordability, and availability of the tools we all need to fight these diseases. 

"Cancer patients in high-income countries are exploring the benefits of cancer innovations like genomic science, cutting edge clinical trials, and the increasing use of Artificial Intelligence. 

"I want this for all countries, along with the research skills to adapt their use to support patients’ needs locally. 

"Cancer Patients in many LMICs are already bearing the brunt of cancer-related mortality often with little access to cancer management, pain medication and palliative care.”

The UICC has been dedicated to reducing cancer cases globally and helping the cancer community through advocacy initiatives.