Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu Receives Int’l Cancer Society Award

The Medicaid Cancer Foundation (MCF), on behalf of the International Gynecologic Cancer Society (IGCS), has honored its CEO, Dr. Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu, with the esteemed 2024 Dicey Scroggins Distinguished Advocate Award.

Dr. Shinkafi-Bagudu, a pediatrician and global leader in cancer care, has been recognised for her unwavering commitment to improving cancer care access, particularly for women and children.

Her leadership at MCF has been transformative, helping the foundation become a crucial force in Nigeria and beyond. Since its inception, MCF has offered free cancer screenings, diagnoses, and treatment support, improving awareness of cancer by 25.8 percent since 2008 and significantly reducing late-stage cancer presentations.

The foundation’s affordable treatment options have benefited countless individuals, making cancer care more accessible to underserved communities.

Beyond her role at MCF, Dr. Shinkafi-Bagudu has demonstrated long-standing dedication to healthcare advocacy. As the former First Lady of Kebbi State (2015-2023), she played a pivotal role in forging partnerships with global organisations such as the World Health Organization (WHO), the Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI), and the Kebbi State government.

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Together, they screened and treated over 40,000 women for cervical cancer and helped introduce the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine in Nigeria. Over 13 million girls have already benefited from this critical public health initiative.

The president of IGCS, Dr. Keiichi Fujiwara, praised Dr. Shinkafi-Bagudu’s contributions, stating that “Dr. Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu is a true champion for women’s health and a relentless advocate for those facing cancer. Her commitment to early detection, prevention, and access to care has undoubtedly saved countless lives. We are honored to recognize her with this prestigious award.”

The Dicey Scroggins Distinguished Advocate Award, presented annually, celebrates individuals who have made significant contributions to gynecologic cancer advocacy.

The IGCS is a leading international professional society committed to advancing the science and practice of gynecologic oncology. With a global membership of over 4,000 healthcare professionals, the IGCS fosters education, research, and advocacy initiatives to improve women’s health outcomes worldwide.