Malaria advocates hail Pate's TIME100 spot as milestone for Nigeria
The recent inclusion of Nigeria’s Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, in TIME Magazine’s list of 100 most influential people in global health has been hailed as a validation of Nigeria’s emerging prominence in international health leadership.
Reacting to the recognition, Chief Emmanuel Umenwa, Chairman of Geneith Pharmaceuticals Ltd, and Prince Cletus Ilobanafor, Managing Director and CEO of CEOAfrica, said the accolade reflects not only Pate’s personal impact but also aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s broader vision of transformative reforms across key sectors, especially healthcare.
“The honour symbolizes the profound impact you have made in shaping healthcare policies and outcomes, both in Nigeria and around the world,” the duo said in a joint statement.
Umenwa and Ilobanafor are the sponsors and initiators of the Geneith Health Competition (GHC), a national initiative aimed at raising malaria awareness and promoting prevention among secondary and tertiary school students. The programme is supported by Coastal Forte Softgel.
Describing the global recognition as “timely and well-deserved,” the sponsors praised Prof. Pate’s leadership in strengthening primary healthcare, expanding the community health workforce, and revitalising frontline facilities—efforts they say are crucial for improving maternal, newborn, and child health services in Nigeria.
“Your steadfast commitment to health equity and strengthening healthcare systems is commendable,” they added, highlighting the Minister’s reformist zeal and inclusive leadership.
The statement also applauded Pate’s role in advancing Nigeria’s response to malaria, particularly the introduction of malaria vaccines. The sponsors called the move “strategic and vital,” noting that malaria still accounts for nearly 65 percent of clinical visits in the country.
They further acknowledged Pate’s success in fostering collaboration between government agencies, the private sector, and development partners. According to them, this inclusive approach has deepened transparency, boosted investor confidence, and strengthened public trust in Nigeria’s healthcare system.
The Minister’s advocacy for local drug manufacturing and pharmaceutical development also came in for praise. Umenwa and Ilobanafor said these efforts could transform Nigeria’s health sovereignty and fortify its pharmaceutical value chain.
However, they did not shy away from calling attention to persistent tensions within the health sector. They urged Prof. Pate to lead with fairness and ensure that all categories of health professionals receive equitable treatment.
“As a global health leader, we trust you to uphold the rule of law and ensure that all healthcare workers enjoy the benefits and privileges they deserve.
“Your moral integrity, vision, and empathy must continue to guide your leadership as you navigate the complex terrain of healthcare reform,” they stated.
The sponsors also emphasised the importance of interprofessional harmony and collaboration. They encouraged Pate to continue promoting team-based health system approaches that have proven effective in other countries.
“Despite the enormity of Nigeria’s health challenges, we believe you are well-positioned to drive sustainable solutions that strengthen cooperation across all health cadres,” they added.
Reaffirming their support for the federal government’s efforts to achieve Universal Health Coverage (UHC), the GHC sponsors pledged continued partnership with the Ministry of Health and other stakeholders to deliver improved health outcomes for all Nigerians.
