FG seeks young Nigerians to boost primary healthcare

The Federal Government, through the National Health Fellows Programme, is calling on qualified young Nigerians to apply for the next cohort of fellows who will support ongoing efforts to strengthen primary healthcare across the country.

The NHF Programme was established to address persistent gaps in Nigeria’s healthcare system by training and deploying young professionals to local health systems and driving community-level interventions, the government disclosed in a statement made available to The PUNCH on Tuesday.

The initiative is supported by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and targets Nigerians aged 25 to 35 with degrees in health sciences, social sciences, and related fields.

Fellows will receive structured training, mentorship, and practical field placements across all 774 local government areas, working directly to improve health outcomes and promote healthier communities.

The programme forms a key part of the government’s strategy to build a stronger primary healthcare workforce and equip young Nigerians with the skills needed to tackle public health challenges at the grassroots level.

Speaking on the programme, the Honourable Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, said, “This groundbreaking initiative is set to develop a pipeline of healthcare leaders through strategic capacity building, professional development, and capstone field engagement.”

As the application deadline approaches, the NHF Programme is inviting eligible candidates nationwide to apply and join a growing network of young leaders committed to reducing preventable diseases and strengthening Nigeria’s health system. Interested applicants are urged to visit the National Health Fellows website and submit applications before 30 November 2025.

The National Health Fellows Programme brings together professionals across various disciplines, including health, IT, and social sciences. Fellows undergo extensive training, mentorship, and leadership development, gaining exposure to best practices within Nigeria’s health sector.

The fellowship’s primary goal is to cultivate a cadre of highly skilled and motivated health leaders capable of driving meaningful change and innovation across the country.

The programme operates under the Nigeria Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative (SWAp Coordination Office) of the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare. For more information and to apply, visit the National Health Fellows website.