July 8, 2025
Prof Usman Yusuf Biography

Prof Usman Yusuf Biography – Discover the biography of Professor Usman Yusuf, a Nigerian expert in haematology-oncology, including his net worth, career achievements, education, controversies as NHIS boss, and personal life.

Professor Usman Yusuf is a Nigerian medical professional who has made remarkable contributions in the fields of haematology-oncology and bone marrow transplantation. A distinguished alumnus of Ahmadu Bello University, his career spans across three continents, with notable positions in prestigious medical institutions in Africa, Europe, and North America. His leadership in Nigeria’s National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) was pivotal yet controversial, filled with both accomplishments and challenges. This biography delves into his educational background, career trajectory, tenure as NHIS CEO, and personal life.

Prof. Usman Yusuf Biography: Personal Information

FieldDetails
Full NameUsman Yusuf
Date of Birth[Date of Birth Not Publicly Available]
Age[Age Not Publicly Available]
State of Origin[State of Origin Not Publicly Available]
NationalityNigerian
ProfessionProfessor of Haematology-Oncology and Bone Marrow Transplantation
Marital Status[Information Not Publicly Available]
Net WorthEstimated at over $200,000 annually during his tenure in the United States
Notable RolesExecutive Secretary of NHIS (2016–2019)

Key Takeaways

  • Educational Background: Prof. Yusuf earned his MBBS from Ahmadu Bello University in 1982, and pursued further education in Tropical Medicine and Hygiene at the University of Liverpool in 1988.
  • International Medical Career: He has worked across Africa, Europe, and North America, holding significant roles in renowned institutions such as Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
  • Leadership in NHIS: He was appointed the Executive Secretary of NHIS in 2016, a position he held until his removal in 2019 due to corruption allegations and other controversies.
  • Controversial Tenure at NHIS: Prof. Yusuf faced several suspensions, rejection of his removal, and accusations of fraud involving millions of naira, contributing to his removal from office.
  • Legal Challenges: Post-NHIS, Prof. Yusuf faced legal issues, including allegations of financial misconduct, leading to his arrest by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission in January 2025.
  • Political Engagement: In 2023, he was appointed as Special Adviser on Community Engagement to the Atiku-Okowa Presidential Campaigns.
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Early Life and Education

Prof. Usman Yusuf’s academic journey began in Nigeria, where he graduated from Ahmadu Bello University in 1982 with an MBBS degree. His desire to specialize in medicine led him to further studies. In 1988, he earned a scholarship for a postgraduate diploma in Tropical Medicine and Hygiene at the University of Liverpool in the UK, which provided him with a strong foundation in medical research and practice.

He later became a Fellow of the West African College of Physicians in 1989, solidifying his expertise in paediatrics and haematology. This academic achievement set the stage for a successful career that would take him around the world. His career journey reflects a commitment to medicine and research, with a particular focus on pediatric haematology and oncology.

Career Achievements

International Medical Career

Prof. Yusuf’s medical career is distinguished by his contributions to haematology-oncology and bone marrow transplantation. His international experience includes significant roles in esteemed institutions:

  • Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center: In 2000, he joined as a transplant fellow and assistant professor, contributing to advancements in bone marrow transplantation.
  • St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital: Starting in 2003 as an assistant professor in the Division of Stem Cell Transplantation, he achieved full professorship by 2008, reflecting his dedication and expertise in pediatric oncology.

Prof. Yusuf’s career expanded across three continents, where he gained valuable experience in renowned institutions. In 2000, he moved to the United States, where he joined Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center in Seattle, Washington, as a transplant fellow and assistant professor. His research and clinical work at Fred Hutchinson focused on bone marrow transplantation and paediatric oncology.

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In 2003, he transitioned to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee, where he became an assistant professor in the Division of Stem Cell Transplantation. By 2008, he was promoted to full professor, a testament to his expertise and contributions to medical research and practice in the field of paediatric haematology and bone marrow transplantation.

National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) Leadership

In 2016, Prof. Yusuf was appointed as the Executive Secretary of Nigeria’s National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) by President Muhammadu Buhari. During his tenure, he worked towards expanding the coverage of health insurance across Nigeria, aiming to bring better healthcare to underserved populations. However, his leadership was marred by several controversies, particularly around the administration’s handling of finances and healthcare services.

Prof. Yusuf faced multiple suspensions and allegations of corruption during his time at NHIS. In 2017, he was suspended by the Nigerian Minister of Health, and later by the NHIS Board in 2018. These suspensions were tied to allegations of financial mismanagement and irregularities in the administration of the NHIS. Despite the suspensions, Prof. Yusuf rejected them, arguing that only the Federal Government of Nigeria could suspend him.

In 2018, Prof. Yusuf was under investigation by the Nigerian House of Assembly for financial misconduct, with the Office of the Auditor-General revealing that he was involved in the fraudulent payment of over 6.8 billion naira ($18.5 million) in unauthorized costs and allowances. His tenure came to an end in 2019 when he was removed from office and replaced with Prof. Mohammed Sambo.

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Personal Life

Details about Prof. Yusuf’s personal life, including his family and marital status, are not publicly available. He has kept his personal matters private, focusing more on his professional career and contributions to medical science and healthcare policy.

Net Worth

While exact figures regarding Prof. Yusuf’s net worth are unavailable, it is known that he earned an annual income exceeding $200,000 during his time in the United States. His roles at prominent medical institutions, combined with his tenure as the NHIS Executive Secretary, suggest a successful and financially rewarding career.

Conclusion

Professor Usman Yusuf is a distinguished figure in the Nigerian medical community, known for his expertise in haematology-oncology and his leadership in healthcare administration. Despite facing controversies and legal challenges, his contributions to medicine and healthcare policy have made a lasting impact. His career, spanning continents and fields, remains a notable part of Nigeria’s healthcare history.

FAQs About Prof. Usman Yusuf Biography

1. What is Prof. Usman Yusuf’s area of specialization?

Prof. Yusuf specializes in haematology-oncology and bone marrow transplantation.

2. Which institutions did Prof. Yusuf work with in the United States?

He worked with Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

3. When did Prof. Yusuf serve as the Executive Secretary of NHIS?

Prof. Yusuf served as the Executive Secretary of NHIS from 2016 until his dismissal in 2019.

4. What were the allegations against Prof. Yusuf during his tenure at NHIS?

Prof. Yusuf was accused of financial mismanagement, including fraudulently diverting funds for unauthorized costs and allowances.

5. What is Prof. Yusuf’s current professional involvement?

In 2023, Prof. Yusuf was appointed Special Adviser on Community Engagement to the Atiku-Okowa Presidential Campaign.

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