By Bashir Aliyu
Abuja-Nigeria- President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the employment of 774 National Health Fellows, a significant initiative led by the Federal Ministry of Health. This program aims to foster sustained improvements within Nigeria’s healthcare system by empowering young Nigerians to drive innovation and transformation in the health sector.
The announcement was made by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President (Information & Strategy), during the program’s launch at the State House in Abuja on Thursday. The event was attended by Nigeria’s development partners, senior government officials, and traditional leaders, including the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III.
The employment of these fellows, selected from each local council, was based on the recommendation of Professor Ali Pate, Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare. Professor Pate highlighted that the fellows were the best among 360,000 applicants, emphasizing the merit-based nature of the selection process.
President Tinubu praised the initiative and the rigorous selection process, underscoring its importance. He stated, “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.” He noted that with over 60% of Nigerians under 30, the country has one of the most energetic and dynamic youth populations globally, presenting unparalleled opportunities for innovation and economic prosperity.
The National Health Fellows initiative is part of several platforms provided by the administration to empower Nigerian youths, enabling them to excel and contribute to national development. President Tinubu encouraged the fellows to fully embrace the opportunities and view themselves as future leaders of Nigeria’s healthcare system.
President Tinubu affirmed, “Your selection is more than a recruitment; it proves our commitment to creating a nation where equal opportunities are available to every Nigerian, irrespective of social status, gender, or creed.” He emphasized the program’s vision to cultivate a pipeline of health leaders to drive meaningful, sustained change and innovation within Nigeria’s healthcare sector.
Tinubu highlighted the critical role of healthcare in national development, stating, “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.”
Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Mohammed Ali Pate, expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative and the crucial role the 774 fellows will play in revolutionizing Nigeria’s health sector. Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, Youth Minister Ayodele Olawande, and the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, also offered the fellows additional encouragement with inspiring messages.
The employment of 774 National Health Fellows marks a pivotal step towards improving Nigeria’s healthcare system. By empowering young Nigerians, the initiative aims to drive innovation, economic prosperity, and social transformation, ensuring a healthier and more prosperous future for the nation.