EKITI ACADEMIC COMMUNITY COMMENDS NATIONAL HEALTH FELLOWSHIP PROGRAMME
The Ekiti State Academic Community has applauded the objectivity, transparency, and sustainability of the National Health Fellowship Programme (NHFP), a flagship initiative approved in 2024 by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to strengthen primary health care delivery nationwide.
Speaking on behalf of the academic community, Professor Olofinbiyi Babatunde of the College of Medicine, Ekiti State University/EKSU Chairman of the Senate Committee on University Ranking, described the programme as a strategic investment in Nigeria’s health workforce and a credible pathway to achieving universal health coverage. He noted that the NHFP deploys young, qualified professionals to all 774 local government areas for structured training, mentorship, and field service.
Professor Olofinbiyi, who served on the Ekiti State seven-member NHFP screening committee inaugurated by the Honourable Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Dr Filani Oyebanji, commended the transparent selection process and the robust logistics provided by the state government.
“The National Health Fellowship Programme is a rare example of merit-driven public policy that promotes collaboration between academia and government, while building a new generation of health system leaders,” Professor Olofinbiyi stated.
He also paid special tribute to the Chairman of the Ekiti State Council of Traditional Rulers, the Ogogo of Ikere-Ekiti, Oba Adu Adejimi, for his exceptional commitment throughout the screening exercise.
“I was deeply impressed by the humility and dedication of His Royal Majesty, Oba Adu Adejimi, who remained physically present throughout the screening period despite the sacred and special nature of his exalted position,” Olofinbiyi remarked
He further praised the Ekiti State Government for its consistent support for the health sector, particularly in the welfare of medical educators and the wider health workforce. The first cohort of National Health Fellows, who completed their training in January 2026, has since been employed by the Federal Government and deployed across the country, marking a significant milestone in health system strengthening efforts.
