Meet Dr. Zara Modibbo
Dr. Zara Modibbo is a trailblazer in healthcare with a career spanning over 20 years. She is the Co-founder and Managing Partner of Débbo Africa, a healthcare innovation company dedicated to improving women's access to diagnostic services and tech-enabled health solutions.

My Life timeline
1980

Early Beginnings
1990s - 2000s

Education and Early Achievements
- At the age of 9, my Baba passed away (May Allah grant him Jannah) — a profound and earth-shattering loss that has been monumental in shaping my resilience and perspective on life.
- Attended high school at Queen's College, Yaba, Lagos, where my passion for science and medicine began to take root.
- Graduated from Medical School at the University of Maiduguri, Borno, finishing in the top 10% of my class and laying a strong foundation for my medical career.
2010 - 2015
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Rising in Medicine
- Recognized as a Future Nigeria Awards recipient in 2010, honoring my contributions to public health and innovation.
- Attended a Summer session studying Global Health and Epidemiology with Paul Farmer (RIP) at the Harvard School of Public Health, Boston.
- Attained a major professional milestone in 2015 as a Fellow of the West African College of Physicians (Lab Medicine), advancing my expertise in laboratory medicine.
2015 - 2021

Trailblazing Research
- Published the first randomized trial on HPV self-sampling in West Africa, breaking new ground in women's healthcare accessibility.
- Completed an MSc in Infectious Diseases at the prestigious London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM) in 2021, expanding my knowledge in global health and infectious diseases.
2021 - Present
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Leadership and Entrepreneurship
- Appointed VP of Lab Operations at 54gene, where I drove advancements in genomics and precision medicine to revolutionize healthcare across Africa.
- Co-founded Débbo Africa, a transformative initiative dedicated to empowering women through health, education, and innovation.
Education




Zara is an excellent professional who is doing brilliant work in the fields of Women's Health, Health Tech, and Mental Health. Her work at Debbo Africa is truly inspiring and stands as a testament to the transformative impact of leveraging expertise and innovation to create meaningful societal change.
Isang Awang
Head of Advocacy, Global Parenting Initiative, Oxford University
Dr Zara consistently demonstrates a rare combination of professionalism, empathy, and deep commitment to the growth of others that sets her apart from her peers.
Dr Aisha Nabila Wanka
Co-founder Débbo Africa
I have worked with Dr Zara across two businesses and She is exceptional in her approach to work and life; driven by her passion for the work and people; she is all about delivering value in excellence.
Francis Osifo
Ex YC Ex Tech Stars, Co-Founder Rayda
Dr. Zara Modibbo is a visionary and trailblazing medical doctor whose passion and dedication inspire me deeply. She is empowering women across Africa, creating opportunities, and leaving an indelible mark. I'm excited to see how her journey continues to unfold
Prof. Yahya Mohammed
AFENET/UDUTH
Dr. Zara is deeply passionate and strongly focused on spreading the good in every opportunity.
Prof. Mohammed Manga
Provost, Gombe State University & Federal Teaching Hospital
Dr. Zara's leadership has been truly transformative, shaping my career and character. Working with her has been a privilege—her guidance, wisdom, and mentorship have propelled me beyond my expectations. I am forever grateful.
Dr. Adeola Foluso Adeleye
House Lead, Simaril Supported Living, Winnipeg, MB, Canada.