Zainab Bagudu Urges Early Release, Prudent Use Of Funds For Cancer Treatment
Dr. Zainab Bagudu Urges Timely Funding and Accountability in Cancer Car
The former First Lady of Kebbi State and Founder of the Medicaid Cancer Foundation (MCF), Dr. Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu, has called on state governments, lawmakers, and development partners to ensure timely disbursement and transparent use of funds allocated for cancer prevention and treatment.
Speaking during the 11th Medicaid Cancer Awareness Walk held in Abuja on Monday, Dr. Bagudu emphasized that early release and proper management of cancer-related funds are critical to achieving zero tolerance for the disease across Africa.
The annual event, themed “One Walk, One Fight, One Mission,” brought together thousands of participants from different parts of the country to raise awareness about cancer, promote early screening, and celebrate survivors.
“Thousands of people from different places converge here to create awareness and show the world that cancer survivors have a place,” Dr. Bagudu said. “Many are improving and creating more confidence in us that cancer is not only curable but also preventable.”
She stressed that awareness remains the strongest tool in the fight against cancer and commended the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for her continued support and advocacy for cancer prevention and treatment initiatives.
“I want to use this opportunity to call on governments at all levels, the National Assembly, and development partners to ensure funds are judiciously used for the purpose they are meant for. With early release and proper utilization of these funds, we can achieve zero tolerance for cancer across Africa,” Bagudu urged.
A Call for Collective Action
In her remarks, Minister of Women Affairs, Iman Suleiman, praised the initiative, describing it as proof that unity among Nigerians can bring about real change.
“This is evidence that when Nigerians, especially women, come together, there’s nothing we cannot achieve,” the minister said. “It takes a collective effort for us to strengthen the health sector. When we walk together, we can eliminate cancer from Nigeria.”
Also speaking, Minister of Budget and National Planning, Senator Atiku Bagudu, highlighted the importance of compassion and community support in the cancer fight.
“Every contribution counts. Sometimes, even a kind word can change someone’s life. We must continue to support awareness and provide resources that give people a fair chance at early diagnosis and treatment,” he said.
Support and Solidarity
Fatima Abbas, wife of the Speaker of the House of Representatives, applauded the Medicaid Cancer Foundation for its enduring commitment to supporting patients and promoting early detection.
“You have mobilised communities, raised awareness, and promoted early detection and prevention. Your work is a beacon of hope for those living with cancer,” she said.
“We walk to show our support and commitment to ensuring that no one faces cancer alone, that everyone has access to quality care, and that together we can find a cure.”
The Medicaid Cancer Awareness Walk, now in its 11th year, continues to serve as one of Nigeria’s most prominent grassroots advocacy platforms, bringing together policymakers, health professionals, survivors, and the public in the shared mission to eradicate cancer through awareness, prevention, and accountability.