BY: Saleh Farouq Gagarawa
Alhaji Salele Abdul is a distinguished healthcare administrator, educationist, and visionary leader whose contributions to the nursing sector in Northern Nigeria have left an indelible mark. With an illustrious career spanning decades, he has played a pivotal role in shaping nursing education, healthcare policy, and institutional development across the region. His recent appointment as Chairman of the Governing Council, Jigawa State College of Nursing and Midwifery, Birnin Kudu, is a well-deserved recognition of his unwavering commitment to building a strong, resilient, and professional nursing workforce.
A Legacy Rooted in Dedication and Excellence
Hailing from Dannani Village in Gagarawa Local Government Area of Jigawa State, Alhaji Salele Abdul exemplifies leadership built on integrity, service, and innovation. From his early years, he demonstrated a profound interest in public health and nursing education, which became the foundation of his remarkable journey.
His deep understanding of the healthcare challenges facing Northern Nigeria has guided his efforts in strengthening nursing institutions, expanding healthcare access, and mentoring the next generation of healthcare professionals. His leadership has been instrumental in transforming the nursing sector, ensuring that educational institutions maintain high standards and produce competent, skilled, and ethical professionals.
Unparalleled Contributions to Nursing Education
Alhaji Salele Abdul’s influence on nursing education in Northern Nigeria is both profound and far-reaching. His tenure in various leadership positions has driven significant reforms, institutional improvements, and curriculum advancements. Some of his most notable achievements include:
Provost, College of Nursing and Midwifery, Birnin Kudu – Spearheaded efforts to secure accreditation, improve infrastructure, and enhance training programs to produce highly skilled nurses.
Principal, School of Nursing, Kano – Played a critical role in shaping the academic and professional standards of one of the leading nursing institutions in Northern Nigeria.
Director, Jigawa State Primary Health Care – Led policy implementation and strategic initiatives to strengthen primary healthcare delivery at the grassroots level.
Consultant, Women4Health (W4H) – Contributed to female empowerment in the health sector, ensuring increased participation of women in professional nursing and midwifery.
Rotary International Collaborator – Supported healthcare-focused humanitarian projects, further demonstrating his passion for community health development.
Contributor to Private Nursing Education – Played a key role in establishing a private School of Nursing in Madobi, Kano State, broadening access to quality nursing education.
His expertise and leadership have been integral in shaping policies, developing curricula, and improving the quality of nursing education in Northern Nigeria. His vision has always been to ensure that nurses trained under his watch are not only academically sound but also well-equipped to provide compassionate and professional care.
Leadership with Integrity and Vision
Beyond his contributions to nursing education, Alhaji Salele Abdul is widely respected for his principled leadership, strategic thinking, and inclusive approach. His ability to unify diverse stakeholders, foster institutional collaboration, and implement sustainable policies has earned him a reputation as a trusted administrator and reformist.
His leadership style is characterized by:
Meritocracy and Fairness – He has consistently advocated for appointments and promotions based on competence and dedication, ensuring a highly motivated workforce.
Commitment to Excellence – Whether in education or healthcare administration, he demands the highest standards, ensuring that institutions under his leadership achieve exemplary results.
Strong Ethical Foundation – He upholds transparency, accountability, and discipline, setting a high bar for professional conduct in the sector.
A Vision for the Future of Nursing in Northern Nigeria
As Chairman of the Governing Council of the Jigawa State College of Nursing and Midwifery, Birnin Kudu, Alhaji Salele Abdul is poised to usher in a new era of growth, excellence, and innovation. His priorities include:
Enhancing Accreditation and Standardization – Strengthening academic programs to meet national and international accreditation benchmarks.
Infrastructure Development – Ensuring that state-of-the-art facilities and modern learning environments are accessible to students.
Capacity Building and Research – Promoting continuous professional development, research, and evidence-based nursing practices.
Increased Access to Nursing Education – Expanding opportunities for young people, particularly women, to pursue careers in nursing and midwifery.
A Lasting Impact on Healthcare and Beyond
Alhaji Salele Abdul’s remarkable career stands as a testament to his resilience, dedication, and passion for service. His work has not only transformed institutions but has also directly impacted countless lives through improved healthcare delivery, professional mentorship, and policy advocacy.
As he embarks on this new leadership role, his legacy remains firmly rooted in his unwavering commitment to excellence, fairness, and the advancement of healthcare in Northern Nigeria. His contributions will continue to shape the nursing profession for generations to come, ensuring that Jigawa State and the entire region benefit from a well-trained, highly skilled, and ethically grounded nursing workforce.
His story is not just one of personal achievement but a beacon of inspiration for future healthcare leaders in Northern Nigeria.
