Wife of Dr. Mohamed Zahir Hussain, the first chancellor of Islamic University of Maldives, Naaila Ibrahim Kaleyfaanu has passed away.

The long-serving teacher at Aminiya School passed on Saturday morning while receiving treatment at ADK Hospital. Naaila had been suffering from illness for a long period of time before her demise.

Naaila is known for her long-term service in the education sector and she had also served over 25 years at Aminiya School from the 1970s to 1990s.

Further, Naaila was also recognized for her leadership in advocating for development for women and for her culinary talents. As such, she was the author of a recipe book titled ‘Zeenaar’.

Naails is survived by three children and spouse Dr. Zahir, who served in different posts of the cabinet during former president Maumoon Abdul Gayoom’s tenure.

Naaila’s children are Leena Zahir Hussain, Lubna Zahir Hussain and Vaail Zahir Hussain.

Daughter of formerly renowned businessman in the 1950s and 1980s, Dhidhdhoo Ibrahim Kaleyfaan, the deceased is also sibling of Ali Hashim, current Governer at Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA) and former Minister of Defense Tholhath Ibrahim.

Upon Naaila’s passing, First Lady Fazna Ahmed has extended her condolences to the mourning family.

Funeral prayers are to be held past Asr prayer on Saturday.