Medicaid Foundation, a Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) founded by the wife of the Kebbi State Governor, Dr Zainab Shinkafi Bagudu has been honoured by the Federal government as the best cancer NGO in Nigeria.

In a statement signed by Mukhtasar Alkali from Medicaid Cancer Foundation and made available to newsmen in Birnin Kebbi, said the Minister of Health, Dr Osagie Ehanire who was represented by Dr Adebimpe Adebiyi presented the award to Dr Zainab Shinkafi Bagudu.

Alkali said, “The Medicaid Cancer Foundation has been recognised by the Federal Ministry of Health as the “BEST CANCER NGO” of the Year at the 2021 International Cancer Week in Nigeria with the theme: Cancer Care For All: Through Strategic Advocacy & Investment.

“Medicaid Cancer Foundation is a thirteen-year-old cancer organisation offering cancer screening at various levels, vaccination, treatment supports, raising funds for cancer patients and it’s notably famous for the #WalkAwayCancer advocacy in Nigeria and the world at large.

Alkali said the foundation has been able to influence several government policies regarding the funding and treatment of cancer patients as well as organising training for healthcare workers in that regard.

While presenting the award, the Minister of Health commended Dr Bagudu for leading the campaign against cancer in Nigeria, adding that she has done a great service to humanity.

He said: “The indefatigable effort and passion of Dr Shinkafi-Bagudu leading the Medicaid team is truly commendable”.

Responding, the Founder of Medicaid and wife of Kebbi State Governor, Dr Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu expressed appreciation to the Federal Ministry of Health for finding the foundation worthy of such a prestigious award,  she promised that Medicaid Foundation will continue to do more in the fight against the dreaded disease.