Muslim News Nigeria has honoured Consultant Gynaecologist, Dr. Maryam Jamila Ali, with the prestigious title of Nigerian Muslim Health Person of the Year 2024/2025.
The announcement was made in a statement issued on Friday, November 14, 2025, by the Publisher of Muslim News Nigeria and convener of the Global and Nigerian Muslim Personalities of the Year Awards, Alhaji Rasheed Abubakar, with input from the Islamic Medical Association of Nigeria (IMAN), under the leadership of its President, Prof. Ibrahim Oreagba.
Now in its fifth year, the #MNAwards is a flagship initiative by Nigeria’s most authoritative Islamic newspaper to recognise exemplary Muslim professionals and leaders whose expertise, integrity, and service have positively impacted society.
Dr. Maryam, a Specialist in Gynaecological Oncology at the Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH) and Senior Lecturer at the University of Jos, stands out for her commitment to clinical excellence and academic mentorship.
She not only delivers top-tier care to her patients but also nurtures the next generation of medical professionals with a balanced approach that blends knowledge with compassion.
Her leadership journey began early, when she was appointed Health Prefect at Al-Iman Primary and Secondary Schools, Jos. Even then, she earned respect for her calm authority and deep concern for others’ wellbeing — qualities that continue to define her medical and humanitarian contributions today.
For over twelve years, Dr. Maryam Jamila Ali has made remarkable contributions to medical research and public health, serving as principal or co-investigator on numerous national and international projects focused on HIV, cervical cancer, and reproductive health issues affecting vulnerable groups.
Her work has yielded more than twenty peer-reviewed publications in esteemed journals such as BMC Cancer, PLOS ONE, and the Tropical Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology.
A respected global health scholar, Dr. Ali has participated in prestigious fellowships, including the Global Health Emerging Scholars (GHES) Fellowship and Northwestern University’s STAMINA Program. She also lends her expertise as a peer reviewer for international medical journals.
Beyond clinical and academic achievements, Dr. Ali has held key leadership roles within the Medical and Dental Consultants Association of Nigeria (MDCAN) and the Medical Women Association of Nigeria (MWAN), where she continues to mentor younger professionals.
As a committed member of IMAN, she served as the first Ameerah of the Plateau State Chapter, championing health outreaches that bridge medical care with Islamic ethical values and community service.
Dr. Ali’s professional journey is anchored in a deep commitment to women’s health and serving underserved communities. As the Medical Director of Ibrahim Garba Memorial Hospital in Jos, she has rendered consistent clinical services without pay, an embodiment of khidmah, the Islamic ethic of selfless service.
Her dedication extends beyond hospital walls, as she regularly leads medical outreach programs providing free obstetric, gynaecological, and surgical care in low-income and rural areas.
Her work with vesico-vaginal fistula (VVF) repair missions in Plateau and Benue States has restored dignity and improved the quality of life for women often neglected by the healthcare system.
Dr. Ali has also played a vital role on the Plateau State Hajj Medical Team, notably leading the 2022 and 2024 contingents, offering both healthcare and spiritual support to Nigerian pilgrims in Saudi Arabia.
Partnering with NGOs like Eden Health Mission and Compassion Initiative, she has extended preventive health education and surgical services to remote communities. These acts of service, grounded in compassion and professionalism, underscore her deserving recognition as Nigerian Muslim Health Person of the Year.
Dr. Ali is also widely recognised for her leadership in health education, particularly in promoting premarital health screening, women’s reproductive rights, and ethical medical practices through Islamic platforms such as the Islamic Online University and the Islamic Medical Association of Nigeria (IMAN).
Beyond her clinical and academic roles, she actively coordinates charitable initiatives that support widows, orphans, and internally displaced persons, especially during Ramadan and Eid, demonstrating a seamless integration of her medical profession with faith-driven social service.
Her impactful work has not gone unnoticed. In 2021, she received the Plateau Women Award for her contributions to women’s health and empowerment, and earlier in her career, she was honoured with the NYSC State Award of Excellence in 2010. These recognitions speak to a consistent record of compassion, justice, and humility—values that define her personal and professional life, and solidify her standing as a role model in Nigeria’s healthcare and Muslim communities.
The Convener of the #MNAwards, Alhaji Abubakar, congratulated the awardee for her outstanding achievements and far-reaching impact in the medical field over the years, noting that she exemplifies the true spirit and message of Islam.
“It is therefore our pleasure to recognise your dedicated service to your profession, people, communities, and Islam. We are truly proud of you. You are an inspiration to all Muslim ladies out there, proving that Islam does not hinder women from attaining excellence, scholarship, and professionalism. We hope this recognition motivates you to do more for the country, humanity, and the Muslim community,” Alhaji Abubakar stated.
A proud alumna of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Dr. Ali obtained her MBBS in 2009 before proceeding for postgraduate training at the West African College of Surgeons and the National Postgraduate Medical College of Nigeria, with a specialisation in Gynaecological Oncology.
At 41, she embodies the harmony of faith, professionalism, and service. As a wife, mother, scholar, surgeon, and mentor, she proves that leadership and excellence can coexist with humility and Islamic values. Her career focuses on addressing critical issues in maternal health and cancer care, while her mentorship continues to inspire ethically conscious medical professionals.
The formal presentation of the award will take place at a yet‑to‑be‑announced date during the newspaper’s 7th anniversary lecture.
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