Breaking Barriers: Umma Abdullahi Is Northern Nigeria’s First Female Professor of Mechanical Engineering

By  Lamara Garba

In a historic feat that has sent waves of inspiration throughout the academic community, Prof. Umma Abdullahi, has become the first female Professor of Mechanical Engineering in Northern Nigeria.

Professor Umma, who is now in her mid-40’s was amongst the 66 Senior Academics recently promoted to the esteemed rank of Professor as approved by the Management of Bayero University, Kano.

This remarkable achievement is a demonstration to her dogged dedication, unrelenting passion, and unshakeable resolve to defy the odds and shatter the glass ceiling in a male-dominated field.

Born and raised in Sharfadi quarters in the heart of Kano Municipality, Prof. Abdullahi’s journey to the pinnacle of academic success is a story of sheer providence, perseverance, and determination.

Initially after completing her Remedial Science Programme, she had applied to study Geography, but fate had other plans. She ended up in Mechanical Engineering, a field that would become her passion and ultimately, her claim to fame.

A 2005 graduate and a mother six, Prof. Umma’s achievement is remarkable. She has had to navigate the challenges of balancing family life as a house wife with the demands of a rigorous academic career. Despite the obstacles, she remained focused, driven by a fierce determination to succeed.

Prof. Abdullahi’s rise to the top is a beacon of hope for women and girls everywhere, particularly in Northern Nigeria, where cultural and societal norms often limit their opportunities.

Interestingly, Umma is the last born in afamily of 21; her achievement is a powerful reminder that with hard work, determination, and a refusal to accept the status quo, anything is possible.

As the first female Professor of Mechanical Engineering in Northern Nigeria, Prof. Umma Abdullahi is an inspiration to her students, colleagues, and the wider community. While pursuing her PhD at Islamic University in Malaysia, Umma was able to finish her program within just 24 months, a record that has not been attained in the past 30 years. Her achievement is a manifestation to the power of education to transform lives and challenge societal norms.

Prof. Abdullahi’s historic achievement is not just a personal triumph; it is also a victory for women’s empowerment and a celebration of the boundless potential of the human spirit. As she continues to blaze a trail in her field, she will undoubtedly inspire a new generation of women and girls to pursue careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).

In a region where women’s participation in STEM fields is often limited, Prof. Abdullahi’s achievement is a game-changer. She is a role model, a mentor, and a shining example of what can be achieved with dedication, perseverance, and a passion for learning.

As Prof. Abdullahi looks to the future, she remains committed to inspiring and empowering the next generation of women in STEM. Her legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire and motivate, challenging societal norms and pushing the boundaries of what is possible.

Speaking shortly after receiving the letter of promotion, Umma Abdullahi expressed gratitude to her parents and siblings as well as her beloved husband who is also an academic whose support financially and psychologically was instrumental to her success.

Garba is Deputy Registrar/Head, Public Affairs Directorate, Bayero University, Kano