The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has congratulated Nigeria’s first indigenous female neurosurgeon, Dr. Salamat Ahuoiza Aliu-Ibrahim, on her appointment as the Medical Director of a children’s hospital in the United States, describing the feat as another landmark achievement for Nigerians excelling across the globe.
In a statement issued on Thursday in Abuja, NiDCOM Chairman/CEO, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, said Dr. Aliu-Ibrahim’s appointment reflects the outstanding contributions of Nigerian professionals in the diaspora and further strengthens the country’s reputation for excellence on the global stage.
Dabiri-Erewa noted that the appointment demonstrates that excellence transcends gender, race and religion, added that the neurosurgeon’s remarkable achievement should inspire millions of young Nigerians, particularly girls aspiring to pursue careers in medicine and other highly specialised professions.
She also described the appointment as a powerful testament to the ability of Muslim women to break barriers and attain leadership positions despite stereotypes and prejudice.
According to her, “Dr. Salamat Aliu-Ibrahim’s appointment is yet another reminder that Muslim women cover their hair, not their brains. Her remarkable achievement demonstrates that faith and excellence are not mutually exclusive. She has become a beacon of hope and inspiration for countless young girls across Nigeria and beyond.”
The NiDCOM boss urged Muslim women and all young Nigerians to remain focused on excellence, stressed that competence, integrity and hard work remain the surest pathways to success and meaningful impact.
While celebrating the milestone, Dabiri-Erewa expressed concern over the continued migration of highly skilled Nigerian healthcare professionals abroad in search of better opportunities.
She acknowledged that although Nigerian medical professionals continue to distinguish themselves globally and make invaluable contributions to humanity, the Federal Government is taking steps to improve the welfare, remuneration and working conditions of healthcare workers to address challenges within the country’s health sector.
According to her, creating an enabling environment for medical professionals would help curb the growing brain drain and strengthen Nigeria’s healthcare system for sustainable national development.
Dabiri-Erewa commended Dr. Aliu-Ibrahim for projecting Nigeria positively through excellence, dedication and professionalism, and wished her greater success in her new role as Medical Director.
She reaffirmed NiDCOM’s commitment to celebrating outstanding Nigerians in the diaspora whose achievements continue to enhance the country’s image and inspire future generations.
