By Fatima Saka
In a major step toward strengthening Nigeria’s healthcare system, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, has welcomed 774 National Health Fellows (NHF), one from each local government area (LGA) in the country.
This initiative aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s vision of building a resilient health system for a healthier and more prosperous Nigeria.
The fellows were selected on merit through a transparent and rigorous process, coordinated by the SWAp Coordination Office.
During a visit to eleven training centers in Abuja on Wednesday, Professor Pate emphasized the fairness of the selection process, stating that no fellow was chosen based on personal connections.
“First of all, let me congratulate each and every one of you for making it through a very rigorous selection process. This is the first cohort of the National Health Fellowship Program, and your selection was based purely on merit,” he said.
He further reiterated that President Tinubu ensured the process was open to all, allowing every applicant a fair opportunity.
“The president insisted that this program must be open to all Nigerians. No one is here because of a favor. You earned your place through hard work, competence, and dedication.”
A Call to Action for the Fellows
Encouraging the new fellows, the minister urged them to seize the opportunity and contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s health sector:
“What the president has given you is an opportunity to contract with your future. What you do with it is up to you. You can either take full advantage or let it go to waste. But this is a chance to make a real difference.”
Speaking to journalists, he highlighted the significance of the NHF program in driving health sector reforms and preparing future leaders in public health.
“These fellows are the future of Nigeria’s healthcare system. Through this program, they will gain mentorship, leadership training, and hands-on experience, equipping them to accelerate reforms and improve health outcomes nationwide.”
Inclusivity and Accountability
Professor Pate also stressed the importance of diversity and accountability within the program.
“We are proud that this selection process was inclusive, with strong representation of women, men, and people with disabilities. This is about building a nationwide network of competent health professionals at the local level.”
To ensure that more aspiring fellows benefit, the minister revealed that 359,000 applicants who were not selected will have the opportunity to join the Associate Health Fellows Program, allowing them to participate in health sector reforms and skill-building initiatives.
“We hope this initiative will inspire young leaders to take ownership of public health,both within and beyond government service,” said Professor Pate.
Training and Skill Development
Dr. Muntaqa Umar-Sadiq, National Coordinator of SWAp, urged the fellows to take ownership of their roles and serve as catalysts for change in their communities.
“You are now ambassadors of this program. Observe, identify problems, and work towards solutions. Your role is to help transform your local health systems.”
Dr. Ayodeji Shittu, one of the program’s facilitators, explained the training structure and modules:
“We focus on leadership, problem-solving, data analysis, and mentorship. The goal is to demedicalize the health system, meaning it’s not just about medicine but also about public health governance, social sciences, and interdisciplinary skills that will improve healthcare delivery.”
Voices of the Fellows
The newly selected fellows expressed their enthusiasm for the program:
Miss Aderebe Esther Oluwadunse, a public health graduate, said: “This fellowship will help me grow, train me, and prepare me for a future in the health sector.”
Mr. Mfom Okon Lazaru from Etim Ekpo LGA, Akwa Ibom State, said: “I was selected purely on merit. I’m excited to contribute to the growth of my local government.”
Miss Nadia Abdullahi Ahmed from Bauchi LGA, Bauchi State, praised the program’s transparency and quality: “From the application process to the training, everything has been seamless. The selection was truly merit-based, and the facilities provided are world-class.”
Mr. Abubakar Abdullahi from Gombe State described his journey: “I never thought a program like this could be truly open to everyone. But after passing multiple stages, I realized it was based on intelligence and capability.”
About the National Health Fellowship (NHF)
The National Health Fellowship (NHF) is a three-year program (2025–2027) designed to develop the next generation of leaders in Nigeria’s health sector. The initiative aims to:
Equip fellows with leadership skills in public health, governance, and administration.
Strengthen healthcare systems at local, state, and federal levels.
READ ALSO: First Lady distributes farm tools, resources to 200 farmers in Anambra
SMOOV Chapman Unveils Fresh Label, Same Original Taste
Enhance community health outcomes through grassroots engagement.
Key Features of NHF:
1. 774 fellows annually (one per LGA).
2. Comprehensive training in leadership, data management, and healthcare administration.
3. On-the-job experience in primary healthcare centers.
4. Career pathways into government agencies, health organizations, and policy roles.
However, the official public launch of the NHF program is set for next week, marking the beginning of a transformative journey for Nigeria’s healthcare system.
Distinct News reports that with NHF emphasis on merit, transparency, and capacity-building, the National Health Fellowship stands as a landmark effort to ensure sustainable health reforms for a healthier Nigeria.
