President Bola Tinubu has approved the employment of 774 National Health Fellows to foster improvements in Nigeria’s healthcare system. The initiative, spearheaded by the Federal Ministry of Health, aims to empower young Nigerians and enhance the delivery of healthcare services across the country.
The announcement was made on Thursday, March 7, 2025, during the official inauguration ceremony at the State House in Abuja. The selected fellows will play a pivotal role in addressing critical gaps in Nigeria’s health sector.
Vision for Youth Empowerment
President Tinubu described the National Health Fellows initiative as a transformative programme designed to harness the potential of Nigeria’s youth. He emphasised that with over 60% of the population under the age of 30, the youth represent the nation’s greatest asset.
“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,” Tinubu said.
He urged the fellows to embrace the opportunity, positioning themselves as future leaders of Nigeria’s healthcare system. The President reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to creating equal opportunities for all Nigerians, regardless of social status or background.
The recruitment of the 774 fellows, one from each local council, followed a rigorous selection process. Out of 360,000 applicants, the best candidates were selected based on merit. The programme represents the administration’s commitment to transparency and fairness in youth empowerment initiatives.
According to Prof. Mohammed Ali Pate, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, the fellows will serve as agents of change in Nigeria’s health sector. He noted that the programme is part of a broader social movement to improve healthcare delivery and strengthen the workforce.
“The social movement to improve the health of Nigerians has begun, and we are already witnessing positive results,” Pate said.
Collaboration and National Development
The launch event also featured remarks from key government officials, including Wale Edun, Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, and Ayodele Olawande, Minister of Youth Development.
The Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, also delivered an inspiring message, urging the fellows to see themselves as critical drivers of national development.
Also, President Tinubu reiterated that the programme aligns with his administration’s vision of building a sustainable healthcare system as part of the Renewed Hope Agenda.
“You are the pillars of this vision, and I am proud to be here with you today,” he said.
The National Health Fellows programme is expected to provide a platform for youth to gain hands-on experience, contribute to healthcare delivery, and drive innovation within the sector.
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