Yobe State is mourning twin sisters, Dr Hadiya Usman, popularly known as Hassana, and Dr Aidah Usman, also known as Usaina, who died two days apart.
The sisters died on Friday, October 2, and Sunday, October 4, 2026, respectively, after reportedly battling complications associated with sickle cell disease.
Hadiya was a medical doctor, while her twin sister Aidah was a Doctor of Pharmacy. Their deaths have drawn condolences from colleagues and the wider medical community.
They were daughters of Professor Hadiza Abdullahi Usman, medical director of the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Nguru, Yobe State.
Hadiya had been receiving treatment at FMC Nguru for about a week after suffering a sickle cell crisis, according to reports.
She died on Friday. Her remains were laid to rest after funeral prayers at the Emir’s Palace in Nguru on the same day.
Her twin sister Aidah was also reportedly battling health complications at the time and had been receiving treatment at the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital before she was discharged.
Aidah, who was reportedly pregnant and also living with sickle cell disease, died on Sunday, two days after her twin sister.
Reports said after attending Hadiya’s burial, Aidah visited her sister’s grave in Nguru with their mother to pray.
She reportedly collapsed after the visit and was taken to hospital, where she was confirmed dead.
The two sisters, who shared a twin bond from birth, died within about 48 hours.
Both sisters followed careers in the medical profession, a path also taken by their mother.
Professor Usman is a professor of gynaecological oncology and reproductive health and was reportedly the first female consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist produced by the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital.
She was promoted to professor in 2018 and became medical director and chief executive officer of FMC Nguru in November 2022, the first woman to hold the position.
Messages of condolence have continued to pour in for the family.
FMC Nguru has also acknowledged Aidah’s death, describing her as the second twin of Professor Usman.
For colleagues in the health sector, the deaths represent the loss of two young professionals dedicated to healthcare delivery.
The family has asked for prayers for the repose of the sisters.