President Tinubu announced the employment of 774 National Health Fellows during a ceremony to enhance Nigeria’s healthcare system. Selected from 360,000 applicants, the fellows are seen as future leaders in health services. The initiative aims to empower youth and drive innovation in healthcare, reflecting the administration’s commitment to national development.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has formally approved the recruitment of 774 National Health Fellows, a strategic initiative supported by the Federal Ministry of Health aimed at enhancing Nigeria’s healthcare system. The announcement was made during a launch event at the State House in Abuja, attended by development partners, government officials, and traditional leaders such as the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III.
The selection of these fellows, representative of each local council, was based on a recommendation by Professor Ali Pate, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare. Professor Pate emphasized the meritocratic selection process, highlighting that they were chosen from a pool of 360,000 applicants, marking the initiative as one of significant prestige. The announcement garnered enthusiastic applause from both the fellows and event attendees.
President Tinubu recognized the initiative as transformative and lauded the thorough selection process, reinforcing its importance. “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,” he stated, noting that over 60% of the populace is under 30, offering immense potential for innovation and social progress.
The National Health Fellows initiative represents one of several platforms established under the President’s administration to empower the youth, compelling them to become active participants in national development. President Tinubu charged the fellows to take full advantage of this opportunity and consider themselves as future leaders in the healthcare system.
The President affirmed, “Your selection is more than a recruitment; it proves our commitment to creating a nation where equal opportunities are available to every Nigerian, irrespective of social status, gender, or creed.” He emphasized that the newly selected fellows are pivotal to fostering a vision of a robust, sustainable healthcare framework, stating, “Healthcare is a critical pillar of national development. No country can thrive if its people are unhealthy.”
In closing remarks, Coordinating Minister Pate expressed optimism about how the fellows would contribute to transforming Nigeria’s health sector, claiming, “The social movement to improve the health of Nigerians has begun, and we are already witnessing positive results.” Other prominent figures like Finance Minister Wale Edun and Youth Minister Ayodele Olawande extended their support, reinforcing the significance of this initiative.
In conclusion, President Tinubu’s approval of the employment of 774 National Health Fellows is a significant step towards revitalizing Nigeria’s healthcare system. This initiative not only showcases the government’s commitment to empowering the youth but also aims to establish a foundation for future leaders in health services. By selecting these fellows, the administration hopes to drive sustainable development through robust healthcare, fortifying Nigeria’s social and economic growth.
Original Source: www.premiumtimesng.com
