Dr. Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu, the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of the Medicaid Cancer Foundation, has called on Nigerians to embrace regular cancer screening and treatment, stressing that cancer should not be seen as a death sentence.
“Cancer does not have to be a death sentence,” she said during the 11th edition of the Medicaid Cancer Awareness Walk held in Abuja. “When people are informed, screened early, and treated promptly, lives can be saved. That is why we continue to take this message to every part of the country. I urge everyone to take cancer awareness seriously, get screened, support others, and help spread the message.”
She explained that the foundation has, over the years, led the charge in raising awareness about early detection, public education, and access to quality care for cancer patients across Nigeria. Through community-based outreach programs and partnerships with local and international organizations, the foundation has screened thousands of women for breast and cervical cancer.
Dr. Shinkafi-Bagudu noted that beyond advocacy, the foundation also provides practical support for patients, including funding for treatment, training for healthcare professionals, and policy advocacy aimed at improving Nigeria’s cancer care system. She added that collaborations with the Federal Ministry of Health and private sector partners have helped make early detection more accessible, particularly in underserved communities.
This year’s walk, themed “One Walk. One Fight. One Mission,” drew a diverse crowd of health advocates, government officials, medical experts, and entertainers from across Africa. Among the participants were Tanzanian music star Juma Jux and his wife, Priscilla Iyabo Ojo, who both joined the campaign to promote awareness.
Juma Jux said he was inspired to take part because of the growing global threat of cancer. “Cancer is a big problem worldwide. It’s something we can’t afford to ignore because it kills, and we must keep fighting against it,” he said. “When I heard about this initiative, I immediately wanted to be part of it. The people behind this movement are making the world better.”
He described music as a powerful tool for social change, noting that entertainment can help spread important messages to a wider audience. “Music is a universal language that connects people. Through it, we can make others understand and care about issues like cancer awareness,” he added.
The Tanzanian star commended the Medicaid Cancer Foundation for its consistency and impact, describing the event as a unifying platform for Africans in the fight against cancer. “Medicaid is doing an incredible job. Every year, the event gets stronger and more impactful. I love how they bring people from different countries together. Being here from Tanzania shows that this movement goes beyond borders,” he said.
Priscilla Iyabo Ojo also urged continuous public education on cancer, especially among women. “It’s always important to keep talking about cancer because it affects so many women,” she said. “We must continue to raise awareness and help people understand the importance of early detection. I’m proud to stand here today, supporting this cause alongside my husband.”
