The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has inaugurated the FCT National Health Fellows Selection Committee as part of a nationwide initiative to recruit Health Fellows under the National Health Fellows Programme, approved by President Bola Tinubu. This programme seeks to engage young professionals in the health sector across all 774 Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Nigeria.

The initiative is a key component of the Human Capital Opportunity for Prosperity and Equity (HOPE) Programme, aimed at building a sustainable healthcare workforce by attracting young talents and early-career professionals to drive healthcare reforms.

A Strategic Investment in Human Resources for Health

Speaking at the inauguration, the Mandate Secretary of Health Services and Environment Secretariat (HSES), Dr. Dolapo Fasawe, described the programme as a critical investment in Nigeria’s healthcare system.

“As the Federal Government continues to upgrade existing Primary Health Care (PHC) centers and establish new ones, these fellows will play a crucial role in ensuring healthcare delivery at the grassroots level,” Dr. Fasawe said.

She emphasized that the recruited fellows would be responsible for monitoring PHC activities, providing feedback to the government, and supporting public health initiatives.

Dr. Fasawe also urged committee members to ensure a fair and transparent selection process so that only the most qualified candidates are chosen. The selected fellows will undergo training in leadership, public health, financial management, and monitoring and evaluation to equip them for their roles.

Boosting Universal Health Coverage (UHC)

The Permanent Secretary of HSES, Dr. Baba Gana Adam, who serves as Vice Chairman of the committee, commended the initiative as a major step toward achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC).

“This programme is a reflection of President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to strengthening the health sector and ensuring that all Nigerians have access to quality healthcare services,” he stated.

Dr. Adam also praised the FCT Administration, under the leadership of Minister Nyesom Wike, for prioritizing healthcare as a key development agenda in Abuja.

WHO’s Role and Selection Process

The FCT State Coordinator for the World Health Organization (WHO), Dr. Kumshida Yakubu Balami, outlined the WHO’s support and guidelines for the programme’s successful implementation.

Dr. Balami stated that the WHO mandates the formation of a seven-member selection committee, which the FCT has fully complied with. The appointed members include:

• Dr. Dan Gadzama
• Dr. Teresa Nwachukwu (SWAP Desk Officer)
• Dr. Aderonke Akande
• Mrs. Maimuna Abdullahi
• Mr. Danladi Chiya

The committee is responsible for screening candidates, overseeing the selection process, and submitting a semi-final list to the SWAP Coordinator’s Office for approval.

Shaping the Future of Healthcare in Nigeria

The inauguration of the FCT National Health Fellows Selection Committee is a significant milestone in Nigeria’s health sector reform. By investing in young professionals, the government aims to strengthen healthcare service delivery, improve public health outcomes, and create a new generation of health leaders.

As Nigeria continues to push for sustainable health sector reforms, stakeholders remain hopeful that this initiative will transform healthcare accessibility and efficiency across the country.