The Medical Director of the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Nguru, Yobe State, Professor Hadiza Abdullahi Usman, is mourning the loss of her twin daughters, Dr. Hadiyah Usman Abdullahi and Pharm. Aidah Usman Abdullahi, who died two days apart.
The sisters, who both pursued careers in healthcare as a medical doctor and pharmacist respectively, reportedly died on Friday and Sunday following complications associated with sickle cell disease.
Hadiyah, who had been receiving treatment at FMC Nguru for about a week following a sickle cell crisis, reportedly died on Friday and was buried the same day after funeral prayers at the Emir’s Palace.
Her twin sister, Aidah, was reportedly receiving treatment at the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital around the same period. She was said to have recovered and been discharged, but later visited her sister’s grave after attending the burial. She reportedly collapsed shortly afterwards and was rushed to a hospital, where she died on Sunday.
FMC Nguru subsequently confirmed Aidah’s death in a statement, describing her as the “second twin” of Professor Usman. The deaths have prompted an outpouring of condolences from colleagues, friends and members of the medical and pharmaceutical communities.
Professor Usman, who has served as Medical Director of FMC Nguru since 2022, has received messages of sympathy and prayers for the repose of her daughters and strength for the bereaved family. The Federal Medical Centre’s official website identifies her as the institution’s Medical Director.
The tragic loss has also drawn attention to the devastating complications associated with sickle cell disease and the profound impact of losing two siblings within such a short period.
