President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the employment of 774 National Health Fellows.
He made this known on Thursday, March 6, 2025, during the launch of the programme at the State House in Abuja.
Special Adviser to President Tinubu on Media and Strategy, Bola Onanuga said in a statement that the President’s surprising gesture drew wild applause from the fellows and other guests at the event.
He added that the National Health Fellows programme is a pivotal initiative led by the Federal Ministry of Health to foster sustained improvements within Nigeria’s healthcare system.
Onanuga added that the employment of these fellows selected from each local council, stemmed from the recommendation of Professor Ali Pate, Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfaree programme came from the recommendation of the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Ali Pate.,”
He averred that the 774 who made the final list were selected among 360,000 applicants, underscoring the merit-based nature of the process.
Tinubu praised the bold initiative and the rigorous selection process, highlighting its significance.
“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. With over 60 per cent 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,” stated President Tinubu.
He said the National Health Fellows initiative is part of several platforms provided by his administration to empower Nigerian youths, enabling them to excel and contribute to national development.
The President therfore encouraged the fellows, pioneers in the health service programme, to fully embrace the opportunities and view themselves as future leaders of Nigeria’s health care system.
“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. 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,” the President affirmed.
Tinubu emphasised the programme’s vision to cultivate a pipeline of health leaders to drive meaningful, sustained change and innovation within Nigeria’s healthcare sector.
“Healthcare is a critical pillar of national development. No country can thrive if its people are unhealthy. An unsustainable health programme 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,” said President Tinubu.
In his address, 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 revolutionising Nigeria’s health sector.
“I am here to inform you that the social movement to improve the health of Nigerians has begun, and we are already witnessing positive results,” he remarked.
Also in his remarks at the event, Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, Youth Minister Ayodele Olawande, and the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, offered the fellows additional encouragement with inspiring messages.
In attebdance at the event were, Nigeria’s development partners, senior government officials, and traditional leaders.
