Dr. Maryam Dija Ogebe is widely considered the first female physician from northern Nigeria. After graduating from the University of Lagos College of Medicine in 1971, she pursued specialist training in anesthesiology, subsequently serving in various hospitals across Plateau and Benue states. By 1983, she had attained the role of chief consultant anesthetist at the General Hospital, Makurdi. Between 1987 and 1991, she held the position of chief executive secretary of the Benue State Health Management Board before retiring. Since her retirement, she has remained active as a consultant in several private healthcare facilities and charitable organizations both domestically and internationally. This interview, conducted on January 21, 2026, coincided with her 82nd birthday.
As one of the trailblazing female medical professionals in northern Nigeria, Dr. Ogebe recounted the obstacles she faced earlier in her career.
"Looking back, I see the struggles, but at that time, I was simply focused on my education. My parents prioritized my schooling and I appreciated being in school," she stated.
Reflecting on her early years, she noted the absence of educational facilities in Tilden Fulani, where she grew up. "There were no schools for primary or nursery education in my village. However, my father, who could read and write, documented my birthday. Before he passed away, he implored my mother not to remarry but to ensure we were educated."
Dr. Ogebe revealed she had two brothers, one six years and the other nine years her junior, whom her mother managed to care for amidst financial constraints. They had to trek approximately 20 miles to attend school in Fubor, carrying provisions for their journey.
"We would walk across the hills and rocky terrains twice a month, trading goods like garin dawa (ground corn) and gishiri (salt) for food during our school stays. After two weeks, our parents would bring additional supplies, and after a month, we would return home for more provisions," she explained.
Inquiring about her secondary education, she detailed her experiences at Gindiri Girls' High School, stating it was a developing institution at the time. Following her junior primary education in Fubor, she required a senior primary school, which necessitated another lengthy commute to Dass.
"I stayed with a family that had children my age while attending school, and I performed remarkably well. Upon completing my senior primary education, I was invited to sit the exam for admission to Gindiri Secondary School, which I passed," she said.
She clarified that her education was not funded by a formal scholarship, but rather through the kindness of strangers. Her first scholarship came in 1966 when she gained admission into the College of Medicine.
Dr. Ogebe later transferred to Queen’s College in Lagos for her Higher School Certificate, which was motivated by her academic proficiency and the recommendation from peers. "Initially, I was uncertain about my field of study until a classmate suggested I pursue medicine, which resonated with me following my father's untimely death."
Regarding her relocation to Lagos, she noted that her mother and relatives contributed to her travel expenses, enabling her to navigate the train system that was functioning well at the time.
"At that time, there was little to fear regarding safety during travels. As long as you weren't wealthy, there were no significant threats as one might encounter today. The greatest concerns involved petty matters, such as youthful elopements," she remarked.
Dr. Ogebe faced societal pressures during her studies, with relatives suggesting that her mother should focus on raising her brothers instead of investing in her education. She countered this narrative by gaining support from her peers who had more privileged backgrounds.
Transitioning from a rural background to studying in Lagos brought about a distinct culture shock. Her acquaintance with Helen Kitchener, a well- connected classmate, provided her with invaluable support as she settled into Lagos life and the College of Medicine.
Dr. Ogebe married during her medical studies, a decision she made after three years of coursework in the medical college. Her path to specialization was initially blocked, leading her to seek opportunities in both public and private healthcare sectors afterwards.
Reflecting on her advocacy for private healthcare, she expressed firm beliefs that the future of medicine in Nigeria lies increasingly within the private sector. Despite having numerous opportunities, she opted for public service primarily due to the absence of private institutions capable of employing specialists.
"Throughout my career, the lack of financial resources limited the possibility of establishing a private practice. This inevitability led me toward government healthcare services, especially crucial areas like anesthesia that require specialized skills and infrastructure," she stated.
After retiring in 1991, Dr. Ogebe redirected her efforts into volunteer work, pursuing various charitable endeavors including a scholarship foundation aimed at supporting underprivileged youth.
Rose-tinted by her own educational experiences, she launched the foundation to assist children who lacked parental support or educational access.
"I launched the foundation when I was 75, and it continues to provide substantial help to children in need. Although we may not have extensive resources, the impact on their lives is rewarding," she concluded.
Reflecting on her broader involvements, she spoke of a range of charitable activities aimed at health education and community health advocacy. As she embraces retirement, Dr. Ogebe remains engaged and purposeful, contributing to the betterment of society through her various initiatives.
"Life after retirement is centered on doing good for others, ensuring we maintain good health, and cherishing all we have achieved. I am immensely grateful for my family and my experiences," she added.
As she continues to thrive, Dr. Maryam Dija Ogebe remains a testament to dedication and resilience, significantly shaping the landscape of healthcare in Nigeria.
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