Professor Usman Malami Aliyu is a distinguished radiation and clinical oncologist, academic leader, and health system reformer who currently serves as the Director General and Chief Executive Officer of the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment, NICRAT, Nigeria. He earned his MBBS from Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, and completed specialist training in Radiation and Clinical Oncology at the University College Hospital, Ibadan, where he obtained the Fellowship of the West African College of Surgeons. His professional development also includes advanced clinical and technical training in Egypt, India, Spain, and South Africa, as well as postgraduate qualifications in public health, business administration, and global health leadership. 

Before his national appointment, Professor Aliyu built an outstanding career at Usmanu Danfodiyo University and Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital, Sokoto, where he rose to the rank of Professor of Radiation and Clinical Oncology, Consultant Oncologist, Director of Clinical Services, Training and Research, and Deputy Dean of the Faculty of Clinical Sciences. Across these roles, he contributed to specialist training, institutional governance, and the expansion of oncology care in Northern Nigeria. 

Professor Aliyu is widely recognized for his contributions to cancer research, clinical oncology, and genomics in Africa. His scholarly work spans breast cancer biology, treatment outcomes, teleoncology, machine learning applications in cancer care, and large-scale genomic studies, including work linked to Nigeria’s growing precision medicine and population genomics efforts. As Director General of NICRAT, he has helped shape Nigeria’s national cancer control agenda, advancing prevention, early detection, access to treatment, research capacity, and strategic partnerships at both national and international levels. 

A passionate advocate for equitable cancer care, Professor Aliyu has consistently championed patient-centered approaches that combine scientific innovation with practical health system strengthening. His leadership continues to drive Nigeria’s efforts toward more accessible, data-driven, and sustainable cancer prevention and treatment.

We are honored to welcome Professor Usman Malami Aliyu.