President Tinubu Employs 774 National Health Fellows, Reduces Cost of Dialysis

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the employment of 774 National Health Fellows, a key initiative designed to drive improvements in Nigeria’s healthcare sector. The announcement was made on Thursday, March 6, during the launch of the programme at the State House in Abuja.

The event was attended by senior government officials, development partners, and traditional leaders, including the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III.

The fellows, selected from each local council across the country, were chosen following the recommendation of Professor Ali Pate, the Coordinating Minister for Health and Social Welfare. Professor Pate stated that the 774 individuals were selected from a pool of 360,000 applicants, emphasising the merit-based process.

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The announcement of the fellows’ appointment was met with enthusiastic applause from those present at the ceremony.

In his address, President Tinubu hailed the programme as transformative, underscoring his administration’s commitment to empowering Nigeria’s young population. “With over 60% of Nigeria’s population under the age of 30, we are home to one of the most dynamic and innovative youth groups in the world. This presents unmatched opportunities for driving economic growth, innovation, and social change,” he said.

He encouraged the fellows to view their selection not only as a career opportunity but also as a step towards becoming the next generation of leaders in Nigeria’s healthcare sector. “This programme is not just about employment; it represents our commitment to creating a nation where equal opportunities are available to all, regardless of status, gender, or background,” he said.

In addition, President Tinubu approved an 80% subsidy on kidney dialysis, reducing the cost from N50,000 to N12,000 for Nigerians. The subsidy is implemented at federal medical institutions across all six geopolitical zones.

Participating centers include the Federal Medical Centres in Ebute-Metta, Jabi, Owerri, Abeokuta, and Azare, as well as the University College Hospital in Ibadan, University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, University of Benin Teaching Hospital, and University of Calabar Teaching Hospital.