The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, says Nigeria’s path to a stronger health system lies in empowering young professionals to drive change from within.
He made this known at the National Health Fellows Graduation Ceremony for Cohort 1 and onboarding of Cohort 2, which held in Abuja.
The event marked a key milestone in the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening healthcare delivery through innovation, leadership, and merit-based opportunities.
Prof. Pate congratulated the graduating fellows for successfully completing the programme, noting that many had translated the opportunity into tangible impact across communities, including improvements in primary healthcare and maternal health outcomes.
He also welcomed the incoming Cohort 2, urging them to seize the opportunity to learn, innovate, and contribute meaningfully to national development.
The Minister emphasised that the fellowship programme, launched under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, is designed to bridge the gap between talent and opportunity, ensuring that capable young Nigerians from all parts of the country can contribute to nation-building.
He further stressed the importance of leadership beyond titles, urging fellows to take initiative and drive change within their communities.
The event also had in attendance the Executive Director of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency, the National Coordinator of the Sector-Wide Approach, alongside other distinguished guests and stakeholders.
The Minister appreciated all partners and organisers for their support, reaffirming government’s commitment to building a strong pipeline of future health leaders.

