In a bid to empower young Nigerians and transform the country’s health sector, President Bola Tinubu’s administration has officially launched applications for the National Health Fellows Program. The initiative, aimed at recruiting young Nigerians to drive change, will see selected candidates serve across all 774 Local Government Areas (LGAs) nationwide.
Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, made the announcement in a statement issued on January 20, 2025. The program is targeted at Nigerians aged 25 to 35, who will be tasked with implementing positive changes in the healthcare system across the country.
The National Health Fellows Program seeks applicants aged between 25 and 35 who are interested in shaping the future of the health sector. Selected fellows will receive adequate remuneration, training, and the necessary tools to support health reforms in their local communities.
Applicants must meet the following eligibility criteria:
Be between 25 and 35 years of age.
Hold a Bachelor’s degree in health-related fields, IT, or social sciences.
Demonstrate interest or experience in public health, health-related NGOs, or community projects.
Be available for full-time participation in the fellowship.
Be an indigene of the state in which they are applying.
Own a smartphone with data capabilities for communication via WhatsApp, Zoom, etc.
Provide a recommendation letter from a university dean, NYSC place of primary assignment, or a respected organisation.
Exhibit analytical skills and entrepreneurial drive.
The program will run for 12 months, focusing on capacity building, field experience, mentorship, and post-fellowship opportunities. Training will cover leadership, public health administration, governance, and data analytics, and fellows will gain practical experience in improving primary healthcare centers (PHCs) across Nigeria.
Application Process
Applications are open until January 27, 2025. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply through the official portal at www.healthfellows.ng.
This initiative is part of the Nigeria Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative under the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare and aligns with President Tinubu’s commitment to enhancing the country’s healthcare system.
Post-Fellowship Opportunities
Successful applicants will be financially supported throughout the fellowship and may have opportunities for roles in public health and development organisations after completing the program.
