The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, CON, has congratulated Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu on his appointment as Executive Director of the World Health Organization (WHO) Health Emergencies Programme.
In a statement released on Sunday by Alaba Balogun, Deputy Director of Information and Public Relations, Prof. Pate described Dr. Ihekweazu’s appointment as a timely and well-deserved recognition of his expertise and commitment to global health.
Dr. Ihekweazu, who takes over from Dr. Mike Ryan, brings extensive experience in epidemic intelligence and health security. His appointment comes at a critical time as the world grapples with increasingly complex public health emergencies, driven by pandemics, climate change, and fragile health systems.
“Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu is an exceptional leader and a loyal team player,” Prof. Pate stated. “I am confident that his tenure will further strengthen global health security and emergency preparedness. His visionary leadership, experience, and unwavering dedication to public health will serve the world well.”
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He added: “The world is changing rapidly, and the future of global health depends on bold, trusted, and compassionate leadership. Dr. Ihekweazu embodies all of this—and more. The WHO has made an excellent choice.”
The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare celebrates this milestone and reaffirms its full support for Dr. Ihekweazu as he assumes this crucial global role.
