The National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA) expressed deep sorrow over the demise of Emeritus Prof. Umaru Shehu, one of its founding board chairs and a trailblazer in Nigeria’s HIV/AIDS response. Prof. Shehu passed away at the age of 92.
In a statement released on Wednesday, Dr. Gambo Aliyu, the Director-General of NACA, conveyed that Prof. Shehu’s legacy continues to inspire all who knew him.
Aliyu said, “Today, we mourn the loss of a towering figure in the medical world and a true champion of healthcare advancement in Nigeria. Shehu’s lifelong dedication to medical excellence and tireless efforts to improve healthcare systems have left an indelible mark on our nation.
“As we at NACA reflect on his outstanding contributions, we draw inspiration from his legacy. His pioneering work has not only enriched our understanding of medicine but has also saved countless lives. We are honored to have had such a distinguished figure among us.
“On behalf of NACA, I extend our deepest condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of Shehu. His passing represents a profound loss to the entire medical community, but his enduring legacy as a pioneer and visionary will continue to guide our efforts to combat HIV/AIDS and improve healthcare in Nigeria.”
Shehu was a distinguished figure in the medical community, renowned for his steadfast dedication to advancing healthcare in Nigeria.
His impressive career featured his tenure as Vice-Chancellor of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, from 1978 to 1980. His influence extended internationally, where he held visiting professorships, notably at the School of Medicine, University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill, U.S., from 1976 to 1977.
Throughout his illustrious journey, Shehu was honored as a foundational fellow in prestigious institutions, including the National Postgraduate Medical College of Nigeria, the West African College of Physicians, the Nigerian Academy of Science, and the Faculty of Community Medicine, Nigeria.
In 1991, he received the prestigious appointment of Honorary Consultant Physician, a testament to his exceptional medical expertise. His unwavering commitment culminated in his recognition as Professor Emeritus in 2000.
