In a landmark decision poised to revolutionize Nigeria’s healthcare landscape, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has granted automatic employment to all 774 participants of the newly inaugurated National Health Fellows Programme. This initiative underscores the administration’s unwavering commitment to enhancing primary healthcare services across the nation.
Addressing the fellows during the programme’s launch at the State House Conference Centre in Abuja, President Tinubu declared, “You are hired,” signaling immediate integration into the healthcare workforce. These fellows are entrusted with the critical task of monitoring and evaluating Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) across each of Nigeria’s 774 local government areas, ensuring that healthcare delivery meets the highest standards.
The National Health Fellows Programme, a cornerstone of the Renewed Hope Agenda, was approved in April 2024 to bolster accountability and efficiency within the healthcare sector. Since February 27, 2025, the fellows have undergone rigorous training under the auspices of the Sector Wide Approach (SWAp) coordination office. Their role is pivotal in the government’s ambitious plan to expand the number of PHCs from 8,809 to 17,618 by 2027.
Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, emphasized the importance of integrating these fellows into the workforce to advance Universal Health Coverage (UHC) in Nigeria. He lauded the programme as a unique opportunity for young Nigerians to contribute meaningfully to their communities, stating that the fellows are “future leaders of the health sector who will accelerate the pace of health sector reforms, improve accountability, and get the opportunity to be coached and mentored.”
The selection process for the fellowship was highly competitive, with over 359,000 applicants vying for the 774 positions. This merit-based selection reflects the administration’s dedication to transparency and excellence. Unsuccessful applicants are encouraged to participate in the Associate Health Fellows programme, ensuring broader engagement in the nation’s healthcare reform efforts.
President Tinubu’s announcement not only provides immediate employment opportunities but also signifies a strategic investment in human capital, aiming to transform the healthcare system and achieve equitable access to quality services for all Nigerians.
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