Toba Owojaiye reporting
Abuja, Nigeria
The Federal Government has unveiled the National Health Fellows Program, an initiative aimed at engaging young Nigerians in health-related projects across the country’s 774 local government areas. This program, announced in a statement by presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, invites applications from youths aged 25 to 35 and aligns with the Tinubu administration’s broader commitment to healthcare reforms and youth empowerment.
Truth Live News gathered that the National Health Fellows Program is part of the administration’s ongoing efforts to address Nigeria’s healthcare challenges while creating opportunities for youth participation in nation-building. The selected fellows will work at the grassroots level, where they will be provided with tools and remuneration to drive innovation and improve health service delivery.
According to the statement, the program seeks candidates who:
Are between the ages of 25 and 35.
Hold a bachelor’s degree in health-related fields, IT, or social sciences.
Have experience or demonstrable interest in public health, NGO/partner organizations, or community projects.
Possess strong leadership and analytical skills.
Are indigenes of the states they apply to represent.
Own smartphones capable of handling apps like WhatsApp and Zoom for communication.
Provide recommendations from credible sources, such as university deans, NYSC supervisors, or respected organizations.
Applications close on January 27, 2025, providing eligible youths a chance to contribute to the nation’s health sector transformation.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration has prioritized improving Nigeria’s healthcare system. Key measures include allocating significant funds to revamp primary healthcare centers (PHCs) across the country and partnerships with international organizations to improve maternal and child healthcare services. Additionally, the government recently launched initiatives to expand access to health insurance through public-private partnerships and digital health platforms.
The introduction of the National Health Fellows Program complements these reforms by ensuring that health interventions reach underserved rural areas while fostering a generation of young leaders equipped with practical skills in healthcare delivery and management.
The Tinubu administration has also placed a strong focus on youth engagement and empowerment. Initiatives such as the Nigeria Youth Investment Fund (NYIF) and Tech for the Future programs aim to reduce unemployment, enhance skills acquisition, and encourage innovation among Nigerian youths. The National Health Fellows Program serves as another avenue to tap into the energy and potential of young Nigerians, channeling their talents toward national development.
This initiative not only addresses pressing healthcare needs but also provides an avenue for young Nigerians to gain leadership experience and contribute to community development. By embedding fellows within local government areas, the program ensures that health solutions are tailored to the unique challenges of each community, fostering inclusivity and sustainability.
The National Health Fellows Program stands as a testament to the administration’s commitment to tackling Nigeria’s dual challenges of health sector inadequacies and youth unemployment. As the program unfolds, it is expected to create a ripple effect, bolstering the nation’s health infrastructure while inspiring a new generation of changemakers.