Renowned Nigerian oncologist, Dr Hadiza Theyra-Enias, has been awarded the coveted African Cancer Leadership Institute Award (ACLI) at the recently concluded AORTIC conference in Maputo, Mozambique.

The African Organisation for Research and Training in Cancer (AORTIC) recognized Dr Theyra-Enias for her extraordinary contributions to cancer research and clinical oncology, particularly in resource-constrained settings.

Dr Theyra-Enias, whose work has profoundly impacted cancer care across Africa, particularly in her native Nigeria, received the award in a luminous ceremony attended by some of the world’s leading cancer research specialists and healthcare professionals. Her groundbreaking research in colorectal and cervical cancer has not only set benchmarks but has also provided actionable strategies to combat these cancers in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Dr Theyra-Enias’s dedication and innovative approach have positioned her at the forefront of oncology. Her studies, notably in the challenging environment of Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital in Zaria, have led to significant advancements in the management of colorectal cancer, a feat that places her among the top oncologists globally. "This award is not just a recognition of my efforts but a call to further action against the scourge of cancer in Africa," Dr Theyra-Enias commented, reflecting on her accolade.

The ACLI award is known for selecting individuals who demonstrate outstanding leadership and a profound commitment to advancing cancer care and prevention. Dr Theyra-Enias's selection was based on her visionary approach and her significant contributions to public health, which include pioneering research on brachytherapy infrastructure—a cornerstone for improving cervical cancer outcomes in Africa. As the first female oncologist to lead a major breast cancer screening campaign in Northern Nigeria, her work has attracted admiration from the ACLI to award her in this regard.

Prof Cristina Stefan - President of AORTIC Africa (AORTIC-ACLI) praised Dr Theyra's exceptional contributions: "Dr Hadiza Theyra’s pioneering work in oncology not only advances our fight against cancer but also stands as a beacon of inspiration and leadership for women in medicine across Africa. She is one of only two female oncologists in West Africa to have received this prestigious award, which is a testament to her groundbreaking contributions and the profound impact of her leadership.

The ACLI 2019 – 2020 cohort features an illustrious lineup of researchers and clinicians from across the globe, each contributing uniquely to the fight against cancer in their respective regions. Among the notable awardees is Dr Babatunde Adedokun from the University of Chicago, USA, recognized for his innovative research in molecular oncology, and Dr Judith Ajeani from Mulago Specialized Women’s Neonatal Hospital, Uganda, lauded for her groundbreaking work in gynecologic cancers.

Dr Hadiza shares this honour with other distinguished figures such as Dr Toyin Aniagwu from the University of Ibadan, Nigeria, who has made significant strides in pediatric oncology, and Dr Naa Adorkar Aryeetey from Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, Ghana, a leading expert in breast cancer research. Their collective achievements highlight the dynamic and impactful nature of this year’s ACLI awards.

With this award, Dr. Theyra-Enias's work has not only received national acclaim but has also garnered international recognition, underlining her role as a pivotal figure in global oncology. As she continues her valuable work, Dr Theyra remains committed to her mission of bridging the gap between scientific research and practical healthcare solutions in Africa.