Emamuzo Iboma
The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Mohammed Ali Pate, has been celebrated by key figures in Nigeria’s health and pharmaceutical industries following his recognition as one of the 100 most influential people in global healthcare.
In a joint statement, Emmanuel Umenwa, Chairman of Geneith Pharmaceuticals Ltd and sponsor of the Geneith Health Competition (GHC), and Prince Cletus Ilobanafor, MD/CEO of CEOAfrica and initiator of the GHC—an initiative supported by Coastal Forte Softgel—hailed the recognition as a major achievement, not just for Prof. Pate, but for Nigeria’s growing prominence on the world health stage.
“This well-deserved honour reflects the tremendous impact you’ve made in shaping global healthcare perspectives,” the statement read. “Your visionary leadership and innovative reforms have solidified Nigeria’s place in the international health arena.”
Prof. Pate’s recognition coincides with his ongoing efforts to reform Nigeria’s healthcare system—expanding access to primary care, curbing endemic diseases, and promoting local pharmaceutical production.
The GHC spotlighted Pate’s earlier successes as Executive Secretary of the National Primary Healthcare Development Agency (NPHCDA), where he spearheaded initiatives to strengthen frontline health services and boost the presence of community health workers in underserved regions. The GHC also praised his leadership in fast-tracking the rollout of malaria vaccines.
“This strategic intervention is pivotal in combating malaria, which is responsible for nearly 65% of clinical visits in Nigeria,” the statement noted.
Additionally, the GHC applauded Prof. Pate’s commitment to supporting local drug manufacturing, calling it a bold step toward achieving health independence. “By championing domestic pharmaceutical production, you are building the foundation for a stronger, self-reliant healthcare sector,” the group said.
However, the statement also addressed ongoing tensions within the health sector. The GHC called on the Minister to foster inclusive dialogue and ensure fairness in the treatment of healthcare professionals. “We trust your leadership to uphold justice and guarantee that health workers receive the benefits they deserve,” the statement emphasized that empathy and moral integrity are essential traits in effective governance.
The GHC advocated for a collaborative, team-based approach to healthcare, noting that such synergy has been the backbone of the world’s most successful health systems. Reaffirming its dedication to Universal Health Coverage (UHC), the group pledged continued support for Prof. Pate’s reform agenda.
“We remain committed to backing your transformative vision as you lead the charge in revitalising Nigeria’s healthcare system,” the statement concluded.
