14/10/2025
Dr. Fatima Ibrahim Hamza (PT): Redefining Leadership and Excellence in Kano’s Healthcare System
I have never really been a believer in the popular saying that “what a man can do, a woman can do better.” But each time I look at the inspiring trajectory of this very powerful young woman, Dr. Fatima Ibrahim Hamza, I begin to have a serious rethink or perhaps, she has simply proven me wrong!
As the Zonal Director of Sheikh Jidda General Hospital, Kano, Dr. Fatima has completely transformed the institution into a model of modern healthcare delivery. With her patient-centred approach, visionary leadership, and unwavering commitment to excellence, she has built a culture of compassion, professionalism, and innovation that resonates in every department of the hospital.
What makes her story even more remarkable is that Dr. Fatima is the youngest among all hospital directors in Kano State, yet her performance is spectacularly outstanding. Her leadership style is not only result-driven but also deeply human, creating an environment where both staff and patients feel valued and motivated.
When I recently visited the hospital, I was so amazed and impressed with her uncommon performance. And so I quickly applied my little knowledge of “Standard Worldwide Hospitals Performance Index Scoring,” which is a quick performance assessment tool with dimensions such as Clinical Outcomes, Safety & Preparedness (infection control, disaster readiness, structural safety), Efficiency / Resource Use (length of stay, avoidable inpatient days, average cost per patient), Patient Experience / Satisfaction (surveys, wait times, staff behavior, etc.), and Accessibility & Equity (how accessible and affordable services are to all segments of society).
The outcome indicated a very excellent performance, something usually very rare in many Nigerian public health institutions. It was, in every sense, an affirmation that Dr. Fatima is indeed performing wonders at Sheikh Jidda General Hospital.
Equally inspiring are the endless positive testimonies from both her staff and patients. They speak glowingly of her humility, accessibility, discipline, and genuine love for humanity. She leads with her heart, and it shows in every corner of the hospital. No wonder patients don’t wait to be referred, they refer themselves to this hospital because of the quality of care and the welcoming environment she has created.
Importantly, Dr. Fatima has also maximally utilised the good atmosphere and strong support provided by the Governor of Kano State, Engr. Abba Kabir Yusuf, who has made healthcare reform a central pillar of his administration. With her visionary drive and the Governor’s enabling support, Sheikh Jidda General Hospital now stands tall as a beacon of hope, efficiency, and transformation in Kano’s healthcare landscape.
In truth, Dr. Fatima Ibrahim Hamza is rewriting the story of healthcare in Kano State. She is not just leading; she is inspiring an entire generation. Her work is proof that leadership knows no gender, it knows only passion, integrity, and commitment to service.
A reformer, a rare gem, and an inspiration to both men and women, Dr. Fatima represents the bright future of healthcare leadership in Nigeria. She reminds us all that with vision and dedication, even the most challenging systems can be transformed.
So to Dr. Fatima, keep the positive energy going, and keep it up. Continue being an inspiration to our generation. The people of Kano, and indeed Nigeria, are proud of you.
You have written your name in gold on the pages of history!!!
Written by Dr. Said Sani Baba (PT)
