LIVE UPDATES
President Bola Tinubu has authorized the hiring of 774 National Health Fellows, a project initiated by the federal ministry of health aimed at promoting ongoing enhancements in Nigeria's healthcare system.
Tinubu revealed the fellows’ employment during the program's inauguration at the State House on Thursday.
He commended the bold initiative and the thorough selection process, emphasizing its importance. “This program represents a transformative endeavor that highlights my administration’s dedication to leveraging the vast potential of Nigeria’s most valuable asset – its youth.
With over 60 percent of Nigerians under 30, we possess one of the most vibrant, resourceful, and dynamic youth populations in the world. This creates unmatched opportunities for driving innovation, economic growth, and social change,” the president remarked.
He mentioned that the National Health Fellows initiative is one of several avenues provided by his administration to empower Nigerian youth, allowing them to thrive and contribute to national progress.
The president urged the fellows, who are pioneers of the health service program, to seize their opportunities and see themselves as the future leaders of Nigeria’s healthcare system.
“Your selection transcends mere recruitment; it affirms our commitment to establishing a nation where equal opportunities are accessible to every Nigerian, regardless of social standing, gender, or creed.
You are the most significant asset of this country, and we are dedicated to nurturing a promising future in which Nigeria is a source of pride for all,” the president stressed.
Tinubu highlighted the program's aim to cultivate a cadre of health leaders capable of driving impactful, enduring change and innovation within Nigeria's healthcare sector.
“Healthcare is a fundamental element of national development. A nation cannot prosper if its citizens are not healthy. An unsustainable healthcare program presents risks, while sustainable development relies on a strong healthcare system. You are the anchors of this vision, and I am privileged to be here with you today,” he declared.
The coordinating minister of health and social welfare, Mohammed Ali Pate, stated that the 774 fellows would play a pivotal role in transforming Nigeria's health sector.
“The social movement to enhance the health of Nigerians has commenced, and we are already seeing positive outcomes,” he observed.
Finance and coordinating minister of the economy, Wale Edun, , youth minister, Ayodele Olawande and the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, also encouraged the fellows with motivational messages.
The selection of the fellows, chosen from each local council, originated from Pate’s recommendations, who praised their selection as the top candidates from a pool of 360,000 applicants, emphasizing the merit-based nature of the selection process.
