By Simeon OSAJIE
The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, in collaboration with the Edo State Government through the Ministry of Health, on Tuesday held the graduation ceremony of Cohort 1 and the onboarding of Cohort 2 of the National Health Fellows Programme in Edo State.
The event brought together government officials, development partners, traditional and religious leaders, health stakeholders, and fellows, as speakers highlighted the importance of the programme in strengthening primary healthcare delivery, improving data-driven governance, and expanding healthcare access across communities.
Representing Governor Monday Okpebholo, Coordinator, Office of the First Lady, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani, said the programme aligns with the administration’s SHINE agenda aimed at strengthening primary healthcare, improving maternal and child health, and ensuring accessible healthcare delivery across communities.
She commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Muhammad Ali Pate, for championing the initiative, while congratulating Cohort 1 fellows and welcoming Cohort 2 into service.
Edo State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Cyril Adams Oshiomhole, in his remarks, said the programme reflects a new era of healthcare governance focused on transparency, accountability, and data-driven implementation.
He noted that the fellows would help monitor health facilities, strengthen healthcare delivery, and provide real-time feedback to support decision-making across Local Government Areas.
Representing the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Deputy Director of the SWAp Coordination Office Abuja, Dr. Omoruyi Iyahen, commended the Edo State Government for supporting health sector reforms, noting that the National Health Fellowship Programme was established to empower young Nigerians to strengthen healthcare systems and improve service delivery in their communities.
Also speaking, Edo State SWAP Coordinator, Dr. Godswill Omijie, described the initiative as a major step towards improving primary healthcare delivery and bridging the gap between policy and implementation through collaboration and community engagement.
Speaking on behalf of Cohort 1 fellows, Pharm. Dr. James Abhulimen, said the fellows contributed to healthcare strengthening through advocacy, community outreach, partnerships, and data-driven interventions, while urging Cohort 2 members to remain committed to service and innovation.
In his remarks on behalf of Cohort 2 fellows, Dr. Airen-Ogieva Efosa, described the onboarding as an opportunity to contribute meaningfully to improving healthcare delivery and health outcomes across Nigeria.
The event featured the presentation of certificates to graduating fellows by the Coordinator, Office of the First Lady, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani, while the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Cyril Adams Oshiomhole, presented awards to outstanding fellows.