Zubaida Umar Abubakar is a renowned Nigerian public servant and financial expert, currently serving as the Director General of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), a position she assumed on March 15, 2024. Born on May 21, 1977, she is celebrated for her innovative leadership and contributions to Nigeria’s financial and emergency management sectors.
Profile Summary
Full Name | Zubaida Umar Abubakar |
Date of Birth | May 21, 1977 |
Place of Birth | Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State |
Nationality | Nigerian |
Husband | Kashim Tumsah |
Children | Yes (specific details undisclosed) |
State of Origin | Kebbi State |
Occupations | Public Servant, Administrator |
Net Worth | N/A |

Early Life and Education
Zubaida Umar hails from Birnin Kebbi in Kebbi State, Nigeria. She is the daughter of Col. Dangiwa Umar, a retired military officer and former Governor of Kaduna State, and Amina Yahaya Gusau, a retired matron.
Her maternal grandfather, Mallam Yahaya Gusau, was a prominent Northern leader and former Minister of Economic Development during General Yakubu Gowon’s administration.
She began her education in Kaduna, attending Essence International Secondary School before earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria.
She furthered her studies with a Master of Science in International Trade from Robert Gordon University Business School in Scotland.
Zubaida is also a certified member of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN), the Association of National Accountants of Nigeria (ANAN), and the Institute of Credit Administration (ICA).
Career

Zubaida Umar boasts over two decades of experience in finance, administration, and public service. She started her career at Nigeria’s Debt Management Office (DMO) from 2000 to 2006, where she played a key role in monitoring and managing domestic and foreign debts.
In 2006, she joined the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN), holding various strategic positions such as Deputy General Manager for Organizational Resourcing and Policy Strategy, Zonal Coordinator for FCT/Kogi/Niger States, Group Head of Corporate Communications, and General Manager for the FCT Zone.
In April 2022, she was appointed Executive Director for Finance and Corporate Services at FMBN. Her tenure was marked by transformative initiatives that modernized the bank into a digitally-driven mortgage institution.
On March 15, 2024, she became NEMA’s first female Director General. Since then, Zubaida has implemented reforms to enhance disaster response capabilities and address climate change impacts.
Personal Life

Zubaida Umar is married to Kashim Tumsah, a petroleum lawyer, diplomat, businessman, and recipient of Nigeria’s national honor (MFR). Together they have children but maintain a private family life. Her state of origin is Kebbi State.
Zubaida Umar Net Worth
While Zubaida Umar’s exact net worth has not been publicly documented, her extensive career in finance and public service suggests significant financial stability.