By Muhammad Amaan
Professor Mohammed Yahaya, a distinguished academic and public health expert, has delivered the 55th inaugural lecture of the Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto.
The lecture was titled “The Odyssey of a Sahelian Microbial Pathologist: From Petri Dish to Public Health.”
In his compelling presentation, Professor Yahaya traced his journey from humble beginnings to becoming a leading voice in clinical microbiology and infectious disease research.
He shared personal and professional turning points, including the challenges of balancing rigorous laboratory work with the broader demands of public health service. A particularly striking segment of his lecture explored “The Intersection Between Clinical Microbiology, Infectious Diseases, and Public Health,” underscoring how these fields converge to shape healthcare outcomes in Nigeria and beyond.
Prof. Yahaya also offered a critical reflection on Nigeria’s immunization program, its historical roots, current trajectory, systemic challenges, and future opportunities. Weaved into his lecture were deeply personal accounts of patient cases that, as he noted, “humbled me, reshaped my worldview, and redefined the essence of care.”
While concluding the address, he delivered a poignant message to his mentees: “Let your curiosity lead you but let integrity guide your path. Science without compassion is incomplete.” His words were a powerful reminder of the human element behind every Petri dish, microscope, and medical breakthrough.
Health Reporters Newspaper reports that the lecture took place at the university’s main auditorium on July 31, 2025, at the Main Campus and was held in a hybrid format, attracting over 300 virtual participants and a diverse audience at the physical venue.
Those at the physical venue include the Zero Dose Learning Hub (ZDLH) Sokoto State Team Lead Alhaji Umar Kadi and some Community of Practice (CoP) members.
Also, the ZDLH/AHBN Team Lead Dr Aminu Magashi Garba and other members of the team attended the lecture online.
The occasion drew an impressive mix of attendees, including family members, long-time mentors, mentees in academia, colleagues from the global development space, public health professionals, students, government representatives, and members of the university community, each eager to witness the milestone moment of a seasoned scholar reflecting on a lifetime of scientific and public service.
Some of the participants at Professor Yahaya’s inaugural lecture said, it will remain a reference point within the university and Nigeria’s broader academic and public health landscape, a celebration of scholarship with impact.
