Tribute to Dr. Halima Yelwa Adamu, North’s First Female Medical Doctor
Today, we gather in gratitude and admiration to celebrate the life of a trailblazer, a healer, and a servant-leader — Dr. (Mrs.) Halima Yelwa Adamu, who marks her 75th birthday on this day, Thursday, August 21, 2025.
Born on Monday, August 21, 1950, in Malumfashi, Katsina State, Dr. Halima Yelwa Adamu’s life has been a tapestry of resilience, brilliance, and service. From her early days in Katsina and Kano, through her groundbreaking studies at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria (1971–1976), and her advanced training at the University of Liverpool and the University of London, she carved a path of excellence that would inspire countless women across Northern Nigeria.
Her distinction as the first female medical doctor from the Core North, and the second in the entire Northern Nigeria, remains a historic milestone — an achievement that redefined what was possible for women in medicine, leadership, and public service.
A renowned pediatrician, Dr. Halima’s life has been defined by tireless hard work, unwavering commitment, and selfless dedication.
She has served in diverse and demanding roles, always with humility and excellence:
• Commissioner, former Kaduna State (now Kaduna & Katsina), 1980–83.
• Medical Director, Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital, Zaria (1996).
• Consultant Pediatrician, Damisa Medical Centre & Muslim Hospital, Kaduna.
• National and International Service, including Hajj Medical Missions (1981, 1994, 1997) and representing Nigeria at the UN Fourth World Conference on Women, Beijing (1995).
Her leadership extended far beyond the hospital walls, into community building and humanitarian service:
• Board Member, Demonstration School for Deaf Children, Kaduna (since 1988).
• Board Member, Muslim Hospital Management, Kaduna (since 1992).
• Member, Kaduna State Foundation Health Committee (since 1992).
• Commissioner, Federal Character Commission (1995).
• National Advocate for Health, inaugurated in 2017 by the Federal Ministry of Health and USAID.
Even today, Dr. Halima continues her life of service as the Medical Director of Gizanda Healthcare & Consultancy Services and Healthcare Support Initiatives (HESI), Katsina, tirelessly working to expand access to healthcare, empower women, and nurture future generations of medical professionals.
Her hard work has never gone unnoticed. She is the recipient of numerous accolades, including the Canadian Mathematical Association Award (1968), Canadian Deaf Society Award (1989), Katsina State Merit Award (1990), and the distinguished National Productivity Merit Award.
Beyond her professional journey, Dr. Halima is a devoted wife, a loving mother, and a cherished grandmother. Her life reflects not only achievement but also compassion, humility, and care for humanity. Her hobbies — reading, traveling, nurturing children and the elderly, writing and discussing health matters — reflect the gentleness of her heart and the sharpness of her mind.
At 75 years, Dr. Halima Yelwa Adamu is not just a pioneer of yesterday but a shining example of strength, determination, and grace today. She is a woman whose name is written in the history of Nigeria with honor — a symbol of faith, hard work, and endless service to humanity.
As we celebrate her, we pray that Allah (SWT) grants her continued good health, long life in righteousness, and abundant barakah. May her inspiring story continue to guide future generations to walk the path of excellence, service, and integrity.
Happy 75th Birthday, Dr. (Mrs.) Halima Yelwa Adamu — the pride of Katsina, the jewel of Northern Nigeria, and a mother to many.
