Our Identity
Evidence-Led. Africa-Driven. Globally Impactful.
Who We Are
Health Evidence and Innovation Research (HEIR) is an African-led public health research organization dedicated to generating high-quality evidence and strengthening health systems through data-driven solutions.
We operate at the intersection of science, policy, and community action, ensuring that health decisions affecting African populations are grounded in rigorous research and local realities.
Our Vision
"To see African health systems strengthened by credible evidence and locally driven solutions that deliver equitable health outcomes."
Our Mission
To conduct and translate high-impact health research into policy-relevant insights and community interventions that improve population health across Africa.
Our Approach
Evidence First
We prioritize methodological rigor, transparency, and reproducibility—producing research that meets global standards.
African-Led Innovation
Our research questions and interventions are shaped by African contexts, institutions, and priorities.
Impact Beyond Publication
We move beyond academic output to implementation, advocacy, and systems strengthening.
Board & Leadership
Multidisciplinary Team of Clinicians & Scientists
Dr. Sahabi Kabir Sulaiman
Director; Lead, Vaccine Equity, Safety & Science
A dedicated medical doctor with extensive experience administering public health research, including systematic reviews and meta-analyses.
Dr. Fatima Ismail-Tsiga Ahmed
Lead, African Maternal & Women’s Health
Specialist physician with expertise in maternal mental health and postpartum outcomes in Northern Nigeria.
Dr. Muhammad Sale Musa
Lead, Adolescent Mental Health & Behavioral Science
Experienced researcher focusing on the intersection of mental health, stigma, and medication adherence.
Dr. Saidu Idris Ahmad
Lead, Tropical Medicine & Infectious Diseases
Expert in infectious disease epidemiology and clinical management of epidemic-prone diseases.
Dr. Abdulkadir D. Abdulkadir
Lead, African Child Health & Development
Clinician and researcher dedicated to improving pediatric health outcomes and neonatal wellness in low-resource settings.
Dr. Zainab Yahaya Aliyu
Lead, Oral Health & Epidemiology
Specialized researcher focusing on dental health outcomes and the integration of oral health into surveillance.
Dr. Abdulaziz Tijjani Bako
Lead, African Cardiometabolic & Chronic Disease
Public health expert specializing in the global prevalence and determinants of vaccine acceptance.
Strategic Objectives
Advance global health evidence through high-quality research
Foster sustainable innovation, including digital health solutions
Strengthen public health systems using data and MEL frameworks
Promote healthcare equity for underserved populations
Lead disease prevention through health promotion and education
Drive strategic collaborations across sectors
Empower future African scientists through structured mentorship
Disseminate knowledge via accessible research platforms
Mobilize community and institutional resources
Advocate for evidence-based and sustainable health policies
Why HEIR Matters
Despite growing data availability, many health decisions in Africa remain under-informed. HEIR exists to close this gap—ensuring that African-generated data informs African health priorities.