Health Minister Pate Appoints Colleague’s Wife As Adviser On Women Health, Cancer Advocacy

The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Muhammad Ali Pate, has approved the appointment of Dr. (Mrs.) Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu as Senior Advisor on Women’s Health and Cancer Advocacy.

Dr. Shinkafi-Bagudu is the immediate-past First Lady of Kebbi State and wife of the Minister of Budget and National Planning, Atiku Bugudu.

Taking to his X handle on Tuesday, Dr. Pate said Dr. Shinkafi-Bagudu, in her new role, will provide strategic guidance and expert advice to advance Nigeria’s national health objectives, particularly in the areas of cancer prevention, early diagnosis, and women’s health promotion, adding that he was confident that her expertise will significantly contribute to the advancement of the nation’s health sector.

The Health Minister wrote: “I am pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. (Mrs.) Zainab Shinkafi Bagudu @DrZSB as the Senior Advisor on Women’s Health and Cancer Advocacy to the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare @Fmohnigeria.

“Dr. Bagudu, a Consultant Paediatrician and renowned cancer advocate, has over 20 years of experience in health leadership and advocacy. As the CEO of Medicaid Cancer Foundation @MedicaidcfP and Chairperson of First Ladies Against Cancer @FlacNigeria, she has championed cancer awareness and women’s health initiatives, driving impactful programs and fostering collaboration with various health agencies.

“As a Senior Adviser, Dr. Bagudu will provide strategic guidance and expert advice to advance our national health objectives, particularly in the areas of cancer prevention, early diagnosis, and women’s health promotion. Her extensive experience and dedication to women’s health will be instrumental in driving impactful health initiatives and improving outcomes for women and adolescent girls across Nigeria.

“Dr. Bagudu will work closely with various federal ministries, health agencies, and stakeholders to ensure the effective implementation of the National Strategic Cancer Control Plan and other critical health interventions. Her role will also involve fostering multisectoral collaboration to enhance public health prevention and promotion activities in alignment with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu @officialABAT.

“I congratulate and welcome Dr. Zainab Shinkafi Bagudu to this position. I am confident that her expertise will significantly contribute to the advancement of our health sector.”