President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has formally approved the employment of 774 National Health Fellows, marking a significant step towards bolstering Nigeria's healthcare system. This initiative, spearheaded by the Federal Ministry of Health, aims to foster sustained improvements in healthcare delivery across the nation.

The announcement was made by President Tinubu himself on Thursday during the launch of the National Health Fellows Programme held at the State House in Abuja. The ceremony was attended by various dignitaries, including Nigeria's development partners, senior government officials, and traditional leaders, notably the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III.

During the event at the State House Conference Centre, President Tinubu addressed the newly appointed fellows, who will be responsible for monitoring Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) in each of Nigeria's 774 local government areas. With a resounding endorsement, he declared, "You are hired," underscoring his administration's steadfast commitment to strengthening the country's healthcare infrastructure and services.

The employment of these fellows, each representing a local government area, followed a rigorous selection process overseen by Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Ali Pate. Professor Pate emphasized the merit-based nature of the selection, noting that these fellows were chosen as the best among a pool of approximately 360,000 applicants.

President Tinubu's announcement was met with enthusiastic applause from the fellows and other attendees, reflecting widespread support for the initiative. The President lauded the program as a bold and transformative step, emphasizing its potential to harness the capabilities of Nigeria's youth. He stated, "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. With over 60 per cent of Nigerians under 30, we boast one of the most energetic, resourceful, and dynamic youth populations globally. This presents unparalleled opportunities to drive innovation, economic prosperity, and social transformation."

President Tinubu further highlighted that the National Health Fellows initiative is part of a broader strategy by his administration to empower Nigerian youths, enabling them to excel and contribute significantly to national development. He encouraged the fellows to embrace their roles as pioneers in the health service program and to see themselves as future leaders in Nigeria's healthcare sector.

"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. You are this country’s greatest asset, and we are committed to fostering a bright future where Nigeria stands as a nation of pride for all," President Tinubu affirmed.

The President also emphasized the program's vision to cultivate a pipeline of skilled health leaders capable of driving meaningful and sustained change within Nigeria's healthcare system. "Healthcare is a critical pillar of national development. No country can thrive if its people are unhealthy. An unsustainable health programme poses risks, while sustainable development hinges on a robust healthcare system. You are the pillars of this vision, and I am proud to be here with you today," he added.

In his remarks, Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Mohammed Ali Pate, expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative and the pivotal role the 774 fellows will play in revolutionizing Nigeria’s health sector. "I am here to inform you that the social movement to improve the health of Nigerians has begun, and we are already witnessing positive results," he stated.

Additional encouragement and inspiring messages were offered by Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun; Youth Minister, Ayodele Olawande; and the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, further underscoring the importance and collaborative spirit of the National Health Fellows Programme.