President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the employment of 774 National Health Fellows under a new initiative led by the Federal Ministry of Health to drive sustainable improvements within Nigeria’s healthcare system.
According to a press statement signed by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President, (Information & Strategy), the announcement was made on Thursday at the official launch of the programme held at the State House in Abuja.
The event witnessed the presence of development partners, senior government officials, and traditional leaders, including the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III.
The fellows, selected from each of Nigeria’s 774 local government areas, were chosen based on merit from a pool of 360,000 applicants following the recommendation of Professor Ali Pate, Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare.
Professor Pate praised the selection process as a testament to the programme’s integrity and merit-based approach.
The President’s unexpected announcement was met with enthusiastic applause from the newly recruited fellows and other attendees at the event.
Highlighting the significance of the initiative, Tinubu described it as a transformative step that aligns with his administration’s vision to leverage Nigeria’s youthful population.
He said, “This programme is a transformative initiative that underscores my administration’s commitment to harnessing the immense potential of Nigeria’s greatest asset—its young people,” President Tinubu said. “With over 60% of Nigerians under 30, we boast one of the most energetic, resourceful, and dynamic youth populations globally. This presents unparalleled opportunities to drive innovation, economic prosperity, and social transformation.”
The National Health Fellows initiative is part of a broader strategy by the Tinubu administration to empower young Nigerians and provide them with platforms to contribute to national development.
The President urged the fellows to embrace the opportunity, positioning themselves as future leaders of Nigeria’s healthcare system adding, “Your selection is more than a recruitment; it is proof of our commitment to creating a nation where equal opportunities are available to every Nigerian, irrespective of social status, gender, or creed,” he said. “You are this country’s greatest asset, and we are committed to fostering a bright future where Nigeria stands as a nation of pride for all.”
Emphasising the critical role of healthcare in national development, Tinubu noted, “Healthcare is a critical pillar of national development. No country can thrive if its people are unhealthy. An unsustainable health program poses risks, while sustainable development hinges on a robust healthcare system. You are the pillars of this vision, and I am proud to be here with you today.”
Professor Pate also shared his optimism for the programme’s impact on Nigeria’s health sector, stating, “The social movement to improve the health of Nigerians has begun, and we are already witnessing positive results.”
Supporting the initiative, Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy Wale Edun, Youth Minister Ayodele Olawande, and the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, delivered inspiring messages to the fellows, encouraging them to contribute meaningfully to the country’s healthcare transformation.
The National Health Fellows programme is expected to serve as a breeding ground for future health leaders, ensuring sustained innovation and meaningful change within Nigeria’s healthcare sector.
