Diaspora Star | Runcie C.W. Chidebe: Championing Cancer Care and Advocacy in Nigeria

Runcie Chidebe, born on December 26, 1985, in Talata Mafara, Zamfara State, Nigeria, is a renowned psychologist, oncology advocate, and social entrepreneur. He is the founder and executive director of Project PINK BLUE, a nonprofit organization dedicated to raising cancer awareness, improving access to cancer care, and influencing health policy in Nigeria.

He is the youngest of five sons in a family originally from Oba in Idemili South Local Government Area of Anambra State. Raised in a household that valued education, discipline, and service, Runcie’s early life laid the groundwork for his eventual calling to social impact work. His upbringing instilled in him a strong sense of justice and empathy, which would later become the bedrock of his activism.

Runcie began his academic journey at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, where he earned a Diploma in Social Work with distinction. He went on to obtain a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Sociology, and Anthropology, graduating as the best student in his department during the 2011/2012 academic session. He later acquired a Certificate in Entrepreneurship from the Enterprise Development Centre in 2015. Currently, he pursued a doctoral studies in Gerontology at Miami University, USA, focusing his research on cancer and aging further deepening his expertise in global health.

Runcie’s passion for cancer advocacy was ignited during his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) year in Abuja. What began as a community development project for breast and cervical cancer screenings quickly evolved into Project PINK BLUE.

Since its inception, the organization has led innovative cancer awareness campaigns, provided emotional and financial support to patients, and advocated for better oncology policies in Nigeria. One of its major milestones was contributing to the establishment of the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment in 2017.

He has also spearheaded programs like Upgrade Oncology, which trains medical professionals in oncology care, and founded support networks for cancer patients and survivors across the country.

Runcie’s influence has been recognized internationally. He has received numerous awards, including the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) World Cancer Day Spirit Award, the IVLP Alumni Award for Social Innovation and Change from the U.S. Department of State, and the SPARC Grant from UICC and Pfizer Oncology. He was also named one of Nature Reviews Cancer’s Black Voices in Cancer Research and Oncology, for his contributions to health equity.

Through the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP), Runcie gained exposure to global leadership practices. A particularly profound moment during this time was his visit to the site of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech in Washington, D.C., which moved him to pen a powerful reflection about Nigeria’s struggles and his hopes for the nation.

Today, Runcie continues to use his voice and platform to influence both local and global health conversations. He is a bridge between communities and institutions, a tireless advocate for the underserved, and a shining example of what it means to turn personal conviction into public good.