President Tinubu has approved the employment of 774 National Health Fellows to improve Nigeria’s healthcare system, following a rigorous selection process from 360,000 applicants. This initiative highlights the administration’s commitment to youth empowerment and aims to cultivate future health leaders to drive systemic change. Professor Ali Pate expresses optimism about the initiative’s potential to transform healthcare in Nigeria.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has sanctioned the employment of 774 National Health Fellows, a strategic move by the Federal Ministry of Health aimed at enhancing Nigeria’s healthcare system. The announcement was made during a ceremony at the State House in Abuja, attended by development partners, government officials, and traditional leaders, including the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III.
The selection of the fellows comes from the recommendations made by Professor Ali Pate, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare. He noted that these fellows were chosen from a pool of 360,000 applicants, highlighting the merit-based selection process. The initiative was met with enthusiastic applause from the attendees.
President Tinubu emphasized the importance of the program during his address, stating that it signifies his administration’s commitment to leverage the potential of Nigeria’s youth. With a youthful population over 60% under the age of 30, he acknowledged the opportunity it presents for driving innovation and social transformation in the country.
Highlighting the purpose of the National Health Fellows initiative, the President described it as part of broader efforts to empower the youth in Nigeria to contribute to national progress. He encouraged the fellows to view themselves as leaders in the healthcare sector.
President Tinubu stressed that their selection reflects a commitment to offering equal opportunities to all Nigerians, regardless of social standing. He articulated a vision for fostering future health leaders to instigate meaningful, long-term changes in the healthcare sector. He remarked on the foundational role of healthcare in national development, declaring, “Healthcare is a critical pillar of national development. No country can thrive if its people are unhealthy.”
Professor Mohammed Ali Pate praised the initiative for its potential to transform Nigeria’s health sector. He stated, “The social movement to improve the health of Nigerians has begun, and we are already witnessing positive results.” Other officials, including Finance Minister Wale Edun and Youth Minister Ayodele Olawande, expressed their support and motivation for the fellows.
The approval of 774 National Health Fellows by President Tinubu represents a significant step towards strengthening Nigeria’s healthcare system. This initiative not only emphasizes merit-based selection to engage youth but also reinforces the government’s commitment to equitable growth and development. By fostering leadership in health, the program aims to create lasting transformations in a fundamental sector of national development.
Original Source: www.premiumtimesng.com
