MEET OUR TEAM
Prof. Saleh Yuguda
Director General of the National Blood Service Agency – NBSA
Appointed Director General of the National Blood Service Agency on 13th February, 2024. Professor Saleh Yuguda’s appointment marks a significant milestone in the quest for the blood service in Nigeria.
Educated at the Gandu Primary School, Gombe from 1981 to 1987; Government Science Secondary School, Dadinkowa, Gombe State from 1988 to 1991 and Government Science Secondary School, Gombe, from 1991 to 1993. He then proceeded for his MBBS degree at the University of Maiduguri, Borno State from 1996 to 2004; University College Hospital Ibadan, Oyo State from 2008 to 2012 where he obtained the Fellowship of Faculty of Pathology (FMCPath), National Postgraduate Medical College of Nigeria, majoring in Haematology and Blood Transfusion.
Armed with over 30 additional qualifications across a diverse array of fields, including medical education, data processing, quality control, and medical research methodology, he has continuously expanded his knowledge horizons. His insatiable thirst for knowledge propelled him to serve in over 25 different capacities, showcasing his versatility and multidimensional expertise. He has also lectured at undergraduate level, and postgraduate level, supervised a number of postgraduate projects, and he has served as external examiner in a number of Institutions including University of Maiduguri, Borno. He is currently an examiner of the faculty of pathology and has served as a member, Court of Examiners, Faculty of Pathology, NPMCN January 2022 to December 2023.
Professor Yuguda swims in the ocean of knowledge- His life time as a practitioner and academia proved the passion, he has for saving human kind. Holding in reference the learned toga of a professor, and Chief Consultant Haematologist, at the department of Haematology and Blood Transfusion, Gombe State University and Federal Teaching Hospital, Gombe Nigeria. He is also navigating as a fellow of the World Federation of Haemophilia, International Haemophilia Treatment Centre (IHTC) and one-time chairman of the Hospital Transfusion Committee, a community saddled with the responsibility of ensuring safe blood transfusion in hospitals.
Marked with excellence throughout a distinguished career, Professor Yuguda has seamlessly balanced his roles as a dedicated academician and a compassionate healthcare practitioner. He has left an indelible mark on the medical landscape through his exemplary contributions to teaching, research, and clinical practice. As a Chief Consultant Haematologist at the Department of Haematology and Blood Transfusion of Gombe State University and Federal Teaching Hospital, Gombe, he has played a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of medical professionals. Wearing many hats, until
his appointment, he held sway as the Dean of the Faculty of Basic Clinical Sciences, Gombe State University; Lecturer at Department of Haematology & Blood Transfusion, College of Medical Sciences, Gombe State University; Visiting Lecturer, Department of Haematology & Blood Transfusion, Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Bauch; the coordinator of North-East Zone Haemophilia Treatment Centre; the Consultant Haematologist, Federal Teaching Hospital Gombe; current Secretary General, Nigerian Cancer Society; the National Treasurer, Nigerian Society for Haematology & Blood Transfusion. He has also served as Head of the Department of Haematology & Blood Transfusion, Federal Teaching Hospital, Gombe; the Consultant to JPIEGO Corporation, John Hopkins University
for the provision of on-site training on safe blood transfusion as a component of Comprehensive Emergency Obstetrics and New-born Care (CEmONC) training in Bauchi State secondary health facilities service providers.
He is a member of Nigeria Medical Association (NMA), Medical and Dental Consultants Association of Nigeria (MDCAN), College of Pathologists of Nigeria (CPN), Nigerian Society for Haematology and Blood Transfusion (NSHBT), Haemophilia Foundation of Nigeria (HFN), World Federation of Haemophilia (WFH) Among others. He has received several awards. He has also engaged in a lot of community services at the local, state, national and international level.
Prof. Saleh Yuguda has attended 13 international conferences, 61 national conferences and has presented over 30 papers as different conferences, workshop, and seminars. He also has over 50 articles and publications to his credit. He is an award-winning man of integrity and credibility whose prophavels has won him alot of grants, scholarships, and awards.
Prof. Saleh Yuguda a sparkling reference in the field of medicine hailed from Gombe State and bornon the 23rd of September, 1976. He speaks 3 international languages, English, Hausa, and Fulfulde.
YARO SULAIMAN SA’AD
HEAD, PROCUREMENT, NBSA
Yaro Sulaiman Sa’ad is an accomplished Procurement Manager with over 16 years of dynamic experience in leading public procurement operations within the primary healthcare sector. Known for his strong technical acumen and exceptional managerial skills, Yaro has a proven track record in effectively coordinating logistics and streamlining procurement processes.
Born on August 14 in Lokoja, Kogi State, Mr. Yaro Sulaiman completed his primary and secondary education in Kaduna State. He holds both a National Diploma and a Higher National Diploma in Purchasing and Supply from Kaduna Polytechnic, complemented by a Postgraduate Diploma in Marketing and a Master’s in Business Administration. He is currently furthering his expertise through a PhD program at Nasarawa State University.
He has spearheaded significant projects, including the construction of the NPHCDA Headquarters and the National Strategic Cold Store in Abuja. His initiatives in vendor selection for diesel supply and the rehabilitation of primary healthcare centers have greatly contributed to enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of public healthcare services.
His professional journey includes vital roles such as Assistant Director at the National Primary Health Care Development Agency and a lecturer in Marketing and Business Administration at Federal Polytechnic Nasarawa. He also brings valuable experience from his time at Cadbury Nigeria PLC in Ikeja, Lagos. Currently, as the Head of Procurement at the National Blood Service Commission, Yaro is dedicated to ensuring that public healthcare resources are procured efficiently, ultimately improving health outcomes across Nigeria.
With a passion for excellence and a commitment to service, he continues to make a remarkable impact in the field of public procurement.
DR. MUHAMMED LAWAL
Director Regulatory Department, NBSA
Dr. Mohammed Isyaku Lawal is the Director Regulatory Affairs at the National Blood Service Agency. He is a graduate of General Medicine from Vinnytsa National (Pirogov Memorial) Medical University, (Ukraine), and M.Sc. degree in Tropical Pediatrics/Tropical infectious Diseases from Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM), University of Liverpool; (United Kingdom). His first point of service to his father land was in the year 2000 when he was engaged as a medical officer in the Federal Medical Centre Nguru, Yobe state. His dedication and expertise propelled his elevation to the rank of Chief Medical Officer (CMO) in January 2015. Before the withdrawal of HARVARD PEPFAR from FMC Nguru in 2013, he was the Head of Pediatrics ART programme, Deputy coordinator PMTCT and the programme’s training coordinator.
Dr. Lawal joined the NBSA team as the State Coordinator of Nangere Potiskum Centre in Yobe state where he served in that capacity from 2020-2022. It was his astuteness and dedication to duty that earned him the privilege of his current appointment at the NBSA Headquarters. He has attended countless trainings workshops and seminars both locally and internationally. Some of the trainings includes: HIV related programs, Training the trainers programs, Life Saving Skills& Essential Obstetrics and Newborn Care Course among others. Dr. Lawal has also served as member and chaired various committees one of which is the Laboratory Revolving Fund Committee of FMC Nguru, Yobe state. He is passionate about the compliance of Blood Services to International Best Practice.
Dr. ABUBAKAR BAKO SANI
DIRECTOR, BLOOD SERVICE, NBSA
ABUBAKAR BAKO SANI was born on November 17, 1977, in Sokoto, Nigeria. He had his primary education at Ibrahim Gusau Primary School, 1989 before proceeding to Nagarta College, Sokoto, in June 1995. He had his first degree at the Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto State 2004 where he obtained a B.Sc. (Hons) Degree in Medicine (MBBS). In his pursuit for greater knowledge in the Health Profession, he proceeded to the Ahmadu Bello University Zaria, where he bagged two master’s degrees, first in Disaster Risk Management and Development Studies and the second in Public Health (Epidemiology) between 2013 and 2021.
He started his working career as a House Officer/Interm, Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, in 2014 to 2015.
In 2015 to 2016, Abubakar Bako S. served as NYSC Officer in Charge; Comprehensive Health Centre Opokuma, Kolokoma, Opokuma LG, Bayelsa State.
Abubakar Bako Sani also worked as Medical Officer; Women and Children Welfare Clinic Sokoto, from April 2006 to August 2006
Abubakar B. Sani served as a Registrar of Haemoatology and Blood Transfusion, University College Hospital, Ibadan, February 2007 to November 2009.
As a brilliant Haematologist with high level of Professionalism and having an excellent and successful career in the health sector, 2010 and 2014, Abubakar B. Sani worked as a Senior Registrar of Haemoatology and Blood Transfusion, Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital, Zaria.
Abubakar B. Sani, worked as a Consultant Haematologist, Department of Haematology and Blood Transfusion, Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital Sokoto, in April 2014.
Abubakar Bako Sani worked as a Lecturer (pro bono), Department of Haematology and Blood Transfusion, Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto from April 2014 – January 2023.
He served as a Registrar of Haemoatology and Blood Transfusion, Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital, Sokoto from 2016 to 2019.
In May 2018, Abubakar B. Sani worked with the Medical Team Lead for the Nigerian Center for Disease Control (NCDC) emergency response to the Cerebro Spinal Meningitis outbreak in Sokoto State.
In July 2019, He served as a Haematology Consultant for the USAID/HIP Comprehensive Emergency Obstetrics and Newborn care (CEmONC), Sokoto State.
Abubakar B. Sani, in October 2019, served as a Haematology Consultant for the USAID/HIP Comprehensive Emergency Obstetrics and Newborn care (CEmONC), Kebbi State.
In the year 2020, served as a Haematology Consultant for the USAID/HIP Comprehensive Emergency Obstetrics and Newborn care (CEmONC), Sokoto State.
He worked as a Senior Lecturer (On Sabbatical) with the Department of Haematology and Blood Transfusion, Baze University, Abuja, in 2023.
A Senior Lecturer, with the Department of Haematology and Blood Transfusion, Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, in 2023.
In continuity of his professionalism and the reforms carried out in various offices he worked, His advice was sought, and his appointment as Director Blood Service, with the National Blood Service Agency was confirmed on 1st September, 2024, after a rigorous process
Abubakar B. Sani was appointed as a member of many Ad-hoc committees, which include:
- NYSC Medical Officer in-charge; Opkuma Comprehensive Health Centre, Bayelsa State, 2005 to 2016.
- Secretary Nigerian Medical Association, Sokoto Public Awareness Campaign Committee on Ebola Virus Disease 2014
- Chairman Nigerian Medical Association, National Committee on Medical Jurispruddence 2020 to 2022
- Secretary Nigerian Medical Association, Sokoto chapter 2016 to 2018
- Chairman Nigerian Medical Association, Sokoto chapter 2018 to 2020
- Member Trauma Center Revolving Fund Committee Usman Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital, Sokoto State 2022.
- Member Award and Excellence committee Usman Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital, Sokoto 2022
- Member Clinical Service Monitoring Committee Usman Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital, Sokoto 2022
Mr. Abubakar is a member of several professional bodies, which include the following:
- Fellow National Post Graduate Medical College of Nigeria
- Member West Africa College of Physicians
- Member Nigeria Medical Association
- Member Medical and Dental Consultant Association of Nigeria
- Member Nigeria Society of Haematology and Blood Transfusion
- Member College of Nigerian Pathologists.
- Member Association of Disaster Managers of Nigeria.
His hobbies include Reading, Travelling and Humanitarian activities
He is happily married with children.
al Best Practice.
Dr. ADAMU DANLADI DAWUD
Head of Planning Research and Statistics (PRS), NBSA
Dr. Adamu Danladi DAWUD is a public health physician who obtained Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) degrees from the University of Jos – Nigeria; a Master of Public Health (MPH) degree from International University, Bamenda, Cameroon. He is also a certified management consultant (CMC) and a Fellow of the Institute of Management Consultants (FIMC) of Nigeria. He is also a Fellow of the African International Public Health (FAIPH). He has completed several developmental courses, namely, Post-Graduate Diploma in Public Health Management (PGDPHM) from the National Institute of Health and Family Welfare, Munirka. New Delhi, India; Advanced Health Management Programme (AHMP) at Foundation for Professional Development (FPD), Pretoria/Yale School of Public Health – USA; Diploma Certificate in data processing at Rams Consult, Abuja; Certificate course in Clinical Management of HIV/AIDS/STIS at the University of Washington. He has been trained in Sexual/Reproductive Health Research and certified as an Adolescent Sexual and Reproductive Counsellor at the Geneva Foundation of Medical Education and Research (GFMER). He is a holder of the African Vaccinology Course (AFVAC) certificate of Cape Town and the Advanced Vaccinology Course (ADVAC) certificate of Annecy, France. Trained in universal treatment curriculum (UTC) for Substance Use Disorder (SUD) (Colombo Plan), USA, and also skilled in universal prevention curriculum (UPC) for Substance Use Disorder (SUD) by Global Initiative for Substance Abuse (GISA). He has been certified with a Diploma in Mental Health (DMH) as well as, Diploma in Human Nutrition (DHN) by Alison Learning Centre of Ireland and an Executive Diploma in Disaster Management (EDiDM) from La Plage Meter Verse of the United Kingdom. He is passionate about academic research and a peer group reviewer with more than 12 publications in various aspects of public health contemporary issues across the globe. He is presently writing his thesis for the award of PhD by dissertation at the Maryam Abacha American University (MAAU), Kano.
He is a multitalented administrator and rose to the rank of Deputy Director at the department of disease control and immunization of National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) where he made significant contributions as the National Focal Person for European Union Support to Immunization Governance in Nigeria (EU-SIGN) Project and in the area of immunization as the pioneer Head of Secretariat for Nigeria Immunization Technical Advisory Group (NGI-TAG). As a member of the National Emergency Routine Immunization Center (NERIC), he led the establishment of State Emergency Routine Immunization Centers (SERICs) in some states with emphasis on Zero-dose strategies. He supported the Nigeria Center for Disease Control (NCDC) during the COVID-19 pandemic and trained the entire Nigerian Military Medical teams in COVID-19 case management, as well as supported the establishment of COVID-19 isolation centers; one in Daura and two in Katsina town.
He served as a consultant in several international organizations including WHO-AFRO Region at Sao Tome and Principe as International Consultant for Pharmaco-Surveillance for COVID – 19 vaccines and as a Consultant Epidemiologist to the WHO/WCO The Gambia and became the Head of Secretariat for the Acute Kidney Infection (AKI) Adverse Drug Reaction (ADR) outbreak causality assessment in Gambia where medical experts were pooled globally to ascertain the cause of the AKI. He was the Project Director (PD) for the World Bank Accelerating Nutrition Results in Nigeria (ANRiN) project, as a Non-State Actor (NSA – 1) under the Planned Parenthood Federation of Nigeria (PPFN) in Katsina state.
He is the Founder/CEO of Bioprevent Consult Limited (BCL) [www.bioprevent.org] and launched the Drug use Intervention Disorder in Nigeria (DUDIN) project (https://youtu.be/IX9GcY3QbFU). He was a Diplomatic Volunteer – Technical Aid Corps (TAC) to the Government of Mozambique and worked as a medical officer to the Government of Mozambique in Niassa Province. He also voluntarily served as a Member Medical Team – Federal Capital Territory (FCT) 2005 and Member National Medical Team 2015 Hajj operations, assisting pilgrims in holistic medical care throughout the pilgrimage.
Dr Dawud has been honoured with several meritorious awards, worthy of mention are: the Governing Board, Management and Staff of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) End of Year Productivity Award titled “Certificate of Recognition for contributions to the NPHCDA Covid-19 Response” – December 2020; Izom Old Boys Association (IZOBA) – Government Science College, Izom. Niger State, Nigeria – Award titled “Excellence in Medicine” – April, 2021 and he was a meritorious awardee as “Icon of Humanitarian Service” of 2022 by the Arewa Youth Advocacy for Good Governance (AYAGG) in June, 2022 (https://youtu.be/u3Y_yF1TpZE) in Abuja. On the 13th May, 2024, the League of Yoruba Youth For Advocacy (LYYA) and Good Governance presented a Prestigious Leadership Award of Honour to Dr Dawud (https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=CesbOsHWM4o)
He speaks English, Hausa, Nupe, and Portuguese eloquently with a very fair understanding of Arabic and French.
Dr Dawud hailed from Emi-Ubandaki Mayaki Anni of Banwuya Area in Bida town of Niger state. He is happily married with four (4) children and listens to the Radio, Music, play Badminton, and Swim when time permits.
AHMED LAWAL KANE
HEAD AUDITOR, NBSA
Mr. Ahmed Lawal Kane, a public servant of unwavering dedication, hails from Daura Local Government Area, Katsina State. His commitment to public service is a shining example for all. He was born on 05th June 1971. He attended Kcast Staff School, Zaria from 1979 to 1981, for primary education. A product of Rimi College, Kaduna, Kaduna State, from 1981 to 1986 and College of Advanced Studies, Zaria, from 197 to 1989 where he obtained an I.J.M.B certificate. Mr. Ahmed Lawal Kane holds a Bachelor degree from the Ahmadu Bello University of Zaria from 1990 to 1995. Mr. Ahmed Lawal K. obtained a professional/Post Graduate Diploma in Insurance from the West African Insurance Institute (Wali) Banju the Bambia from January 2022 to December 2022. In his unwavering dedication and pursuit for higher knowledge, he proceeded to the Ahmadu Bello University Zaria, where he bagged master degree in Finance from Federal University of Technology Yola in 2007. From 2013 to 2015 Mr. Ahmed Lawal K. was certified as a National Accountant from the College of Accountancy, Kwali, Jos, Plateau State.
His illustrious public service career began in 1994 as an Accounts Officer (NYSC) Governor’s office Damaturu, Yobe State. Later in 1995 he worked as an Internal Auditor in Katsina State Afforestation Project Unit FGN/World Bank Assisted Project. Mr. Ahmed Kawal K. served as an Accountant/Underwriter, Nicon Insurance corporation from 1997 to 2006. Due to his specialist skills in accounting, he was appointed as Manager/Finance/Head of Accounts, Abuja Tourism Development Board: FCDA in January 2007. Ahmed L. K worked as an Internal Auditor, Corporate Affairs Commission, Abuja in December 2007 to April 2020. From January 2020 to April 2021 Ahmed L. K served as Head, Insurance Desk, Corporate Affairs Commission, Abuja. His efforts in managing finance relations significantly contributed to industrial harmony in the Service. In 2021 He Headed Insurance and Transport, Corporate Affairs Commission, Abuja
Mr. Ahmed Lawal K. was served as a member of committees, which is as follows:
- Secretary, CAC Multipurpose Co-operative Society Limited Electoral Committee, 2021 and 2023.
- Member, Ease of doing Business Committee, 2007.
- Chairman, Detection of Fraud and Multiple Use of Receipts Committee, 2016.
Mr. Ahmed’s Hobbies include Reading, Travelling and Watching movies.
MRS MARIYATU MU’AZU MAGAJI
Head of Admin/HR, NBSA
MRS MARIYATU MU’AZU MAGAJI, HEAD OF ADMIN AT NBSA
Mrs Mariyatu Mu’azu Magaji is the Head of Admin with over two decades of experience in administration, public policy, and humanitarian service, Mrs Magaji brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her new role.
Born on July 29, in Maiduguri, Mrs Magaji grew up with a drive to succeed, pursuing her academic interests at Bayero University Kano, where she earned a Postgraduate Diploma in Public Policy and Administration, and a BSc in Political Science. She also attended Federal Government Girls College, Yola, Adamawa for her secondary education.
Throughout her career, Mrs Magaji has held various positions at the National Orthopedic Hospital Dala Kano, including Assistant Director of Admin, Chief Administrative Officer, and Principal Admin Officer. Her tenure at the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) as a Senior Admin Officer and Administrator Officer has given her a unique understanding of the electoral process.
Mrs Magaji is a member of the Institute of Health Services Administrators of Nigeria (IHSAN) and the Anti-Corruption and Transparency Unit (ACTU), demonstrating her commitment to excellence and integrity. She has received several awards, including the Integrity Award Certificate and the Meritorious Service Award, in recognition of her tireless efforts.
In her free time, Mrs Magaji enjoys travelling, reading, and humanitarian activities, revealing a compassionate and curious individual. Her narrative is one of resilience, hard work, and a relentless pursuit of making a positive impact.
As Head of Admin at NBSA, Mrs Magaji is dedicated to combining diligence, compatibility, and humanitarian service in all her endeavors, ensuring the organization’s administrative functions run smoothly and efficiently.
MRS. OZONWEKE OGECHUKWU
HEAD, QUALITY, NBSA
Mrs. Ozonweke Ogechukwu, a determined public servant that stayed focus in the face of challenges and putting in hard work in her service hails from Umuchu Aguata Local Government Area, Anambra State. Her dedication and commitment to public service is an outstanding illustration of a potential leader. She was born on 2th July 1971. She went to Urban Primary School, Nsukka for her first leaving certificate in 1982. And later further to Queen of the Rosary Secondary School, Nsukka for her Senior Secondary School Certificate Examination, from 1988 to 1981, and School of Medical Science, University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital Enugu, Associate In Medical Laboratory Science (AIMLS) in 1995 where he obtained her first degree. She bagged master degree in Medical Laboratory Sciences from Igbinedion University, Okada in 2014.
Her public service career began in 1995 at the General Hospital, Bali Local Government, Taraba State as a Youth Corper (NYSC). Mrs. Ozonweke Ogechukwu served as a Deputy Head of Lab section in Eastern Nigeria Medical Centre Enugu, from 1996 to 1999. Mrs. Ozonweke O. worked in De-Light Pharmacy and Medical Laboratories, Idu, from 2001 to 2007 as a Laboratory Services and Supervision of Operation. Mrs. Ozonweke, served in several capacities in National Blood Service Agency (NBSA) Abuja from August to date; one-time AD Head, Medical Laboratory, Ag. Head, Quality.
Her hobbies are; Travelling, reading books and listening to gospel music.
Barr. Ezema Pius Ifeanyi
Head, Legal, NBSA
Barr. Ezema Pius Ifeanyi is a dedicated and ambitious lawyer, known for his proactive approach and unwavering commitment to championing his clients’ causes. With a robust blend of experience and expertise, he ensures that he thoroughly advocates for his clients’ interests and rights, no matter the complexities involved.
Barr. Ezema holds a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree and is an alumnus of the Nigerian Law School, having completed his studies in 2009. His foundational education took place in his home state of Enugu, where he developed a passion for law and justice from an early age.
Throughout his career, he has garnered invaluable experience in various legal environments. He began his professional journey as a research assistant at the Enugu State Ministry of Justice, where he honed his legal research and analytical skills. He further expanded his expertise at esteemed law firms, including J.O. Olunkunle & Co. and M. Ochogu & Co., where he engaged in a broad spectrum of legal matters.
Currently, he serves as the Head of the Legal Unit at the National Blood Service Agency in Abuja. In this pivotal role, he navigates complex legal frameworks associated with health and safety, ensuring compliance while promoting the agency’s mission to provide safe and adequate blood supply across Nigeria.
Abdullahi Ojoanyonu Haruna
Head of Media, NBSA
Abdullahi Ojoanyonu Haruna is a writer, professional photographer, leadership mentor and Columnist.
He holds a degree in Mass Communication, Master’s in International Affairs and Diplomacy from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. He also holds a certificate in Business Leadership from the Lehigh University, Pennsylvania, USA.
He is creatively endowed with Public Relations Strategies and Effective Information Management mechanisms. As a media and communication professional, he is affiliated with different professional bodies, including the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, the Nigerian Union of Journalists and the World Bank Youth Forum.
Author the book, ‘The BuhariIn Us’. He is an alumnus of the prestigious Mandela Washington Fellowship Program, USA and Global Ambassador of the Icocoa Institute, Lehigh University, USA.
He heads the media and publicity unit of the Agency.