Dr Aisha Shehu Adamu born in September,1969 is a consultant Gastroenterologist and currently the Medical Director Federal Medical Centre Jalingo. She was born in Potiskum then Filla local government area of Yobe State and hails from Karim-Lamido Local Government Area of Taraba State. In this chat with Tambari, the erudite medical director gave a brief of her academic pursuit and her experience as a medical consultant.
Educational Background
I attended Capital Primary school Yola in the present-day Adamawa State, I then proceeded to FGGC Yola for my Secondary Education. I also attended the school of basic studies ABU Zaria and had my MBBS degree from the University of Maiduguri. I obtained a fellowship of the National postgraduate medical college, I also obtained a certificate in international health consultancy from Liverpool school of Tropical Medicine, University of Liverpool UK. I also obtained certificates in HIV/AIDS Management, leadership and Management in Health and Program Management all from the University of Washington DC. USA.
Furthermore, I am a member of the National Institute of Management and Administration, Nigeria.
Career background
I started as a house officer from the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital and then went for my NYSC at the Specialist Hospital Damaturu Yobe State.
I completed my Residency Programme at the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital.
I got appointed as a Consultant Physician at Federal Medical Center Jalingo in 2008, where I have been working since then. And recently got appointed as the Medical Director of Federal Medical Centre, Jalingo
What is your plans and set objectives towards transforming the facility into an efficient and effective service delivery centre?
My plan is, to transform the Federal Medical Center Jalingo into a very effective and efficient facility. l will also create a conducive working environment by motivating the work-force for efficient and effective service delivery with training and research as supportive pillars.
Also part of my plan is to involve the immediate community and all the critical stakeholders and build partnership locally, nationally and internationally as well for the betterment of all.
How was growing up like?
Growing up was very eventful as I was born into a family of Medical practitioners who were transferred from one part of the state to another, so I experienced different cultures and encountered many people who shaped my perception of societal interaction and tolerance.
Life lessons
Life has taught me to be patient, tolerant, resilient and focused
Aspirations growing up
Growing up with parents in the health sector and always around hospitals and hospital personnel’s shaped my aspirations of becoming what and who I am today. l have always wanted to be a medical doctor and this has to do with the fact that l grew up among medical professionals because my parents are both nurses and my uncle is a medical doctor. So, this is to say that from my childhood l have seen my parents in that line and l got inspiration and encouragement from them. You can see that l grew up in that environment
Childhood memories I miss
Growing up in a close-knit monogamous home, my parents, siblings and I shared a close bond. We have grown and moved on to separate things, but I still miss those evenings we all sit around the TV set discussing Programmes and life generally.
Life challenges
My main challenge in life has been seeing injustice thriving and being powerless to intervene. This gives me sleepless nights.
What is your typical day like?
Wake up early in the morning (Pray), walk for 30 minutes, get ready to go to work, work till closing time, return home, rest, watch TV or read and sleep. At weekends, I sleep, visit friends and attend occasions f any.
My most cherished gift
The gift of a wonderful husband and three amazing children by Almighty Allah
Fashion accessories I always have on me
Ring, earrings and a wrist watch
Best travel destination
Rwanda
Best mode of relaxation
Reading and watching reality Television
Last good book read I read
‘Don’t be sad, by Aaidh Al-Qarni inspired me to do good to others and always remember God more.
What is your best food?
Of course Nigerian Jollof Rice
My definition of style
My definition of style is dressing with dignity and poise. My style is traditional, comfort and uniquely appropriate
Favourite perfume, designer bag and shoes
Gucci, Dolce and Gabbana
Mum’s advice that stuck with me
‘Always stick to your lane and avoid excessive probing into affairs that do not concern you directly.’
Advice for younger ladies who aspire to be like me
Equip and value yourselves always. Always play by the rules and accord everyone you meet their due. Lastly, be prayerful, focused, determined and patient
Favourite sport, colour and weather
Table Tennis, pink and for favourite weather, I love the rainy weather
Favourite day of the week
That’s Friday because I look forward to the weekend to rest.
Beauty routine
None. However, I do a lot of walking to keep fit.
What I want to leave as a life legacy
To bequeath a world class functioning hospital to my community.
My role models
Strong capable women both nationally and internationally.
