Pioneering Obstetrician Hadiza Galadanci Champions Maternal Health in Nigeria

Hadiza Galadanci, a leading Nigerian obstetrician and medical academic, is dedicated to improving maternal health outcomes in Nigeria and across Africa. As the first female obstetrician and professor trained in Kano State, she has spearheaded initiatives to reduce preventable maternal deaths, particularly those stemming from postpartum hemorrhage (PPH).

Early Life and Education

Hadiza Shehu Galadanci earned her medical degree (MBBS) from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, in 1987. She subsequently became a Fellow of the West African College of Surgeons (FWACS) in 1998 and a member of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (MRCOG) in 2002, achieving fellowship status (FRCOG) with the same institution in 2014. She also holds an MSc in Reproductive and Sexual Health Research from University College London and a diploma from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine.

Contributions to Medical Education

Since 1998, Galadanci has been involved in medical education at Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital, contributing to the training of medical residents in obstetrics and gynaecology. Each year, the hospital graduates between 100 and 150 medical students, and over 50% of residents in obstetrics and gynaecology are women. The Lancet highlights her commitment to fostering the next generation of medical professionals.

Addressing Postpartum Hemorrhage

Galadanci’s function focuses significantly on addressing postpartum hemorrhage (PPH), a leading cause of maternal mortality. She emphasizes that whereas PPH is preventable and treatable, the majority of the 70,000 deaths annually occur in low- and middle-income countries. The Gates Foundation showcases her dedication to implementing practical innovations and local leadership to save mothers’ lives.

Leadership Roles

Currently, Galadanci serves as the director of the Africa Center of Excellence for Population Health and Policy, a World Bank-supported initiative. Wikipedia notes her role in advancing healthcare research and policy across the African continent. She is also a professor of obstetrics and gynaecology at Bayero University, Kano, and an OB-GYN and researcher at Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital. ResearchGate lists her as having 4,284 citations.

Advocacy and Research

Hadiza Galadanci is a strong advocate for maternal and child health, both in Nigeria and globally. Her research includes studies on postpartum hemorrhage and the E-MOTIVE study, contributing to improved obstetric outcomes and a safer future for mothers and newborns.