FG to deploy 774 health fellows in LGs
The Federal Government has said it will deploy the 774 Nigerians selected for the National Health Fellows Programme to Local Government Areas in the country to support management functions and delivery of critical development roles needed to achieve health outcomes.
Recently, the FG launched the National Health Fellows Programme, led by the Nigeria Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative/ Sector Wide Approach under the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare.
The programme is designed to develop a new generation of healthcare leaders through strategic capacity building, professional development, and impactful fieldwork.
According to the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof Muhammad Pate, the programme is for Nigerian professionals from diverse fields.
“This prestigious programme will bring together a cohort of emerging professionals across various disciplines, including health and health-related, information technology, and social sciences,” Pate stated.
In an interview with our correspondent, the National Coordinator of NHSRII/ SWAp, Dr Muntaqa Umar-Sadiq said, “A total of 774 fellows will be recruited, trained, and mentored, with one fellow assigned per local government area.
“The fellowship aims to cultivate a new generation of leaders in the field of healthy development, both in Nigeria and globally. Fellows are expected to play a significant role in accelerating the achievement of the goals outlined in the Nigeria Health Renewal Investment Initiative,” he explained.
He clarified that the programme is not meant to address the exodus of health personnel as the fellows are not expected to work in the healthcare industry as clinical staff in health facilities but will support management functions and delivery of critical development roles needed to achieve health outcomes.
“The fellows are expected to integrate into public health and development sectors in Nigeria, Africa, and worldwide,” he added.
When asked how much they would be paid, he said although the amount was not yet finalised, “it will definitely be at least equal to the new national minimum wage. Furthermore, we anticipate providing the fellows with access to tools that will enhance their productivity.”
