The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has applauded the global recognition of Nigeria’s Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, who has been named among TIME magazine’s 100 most influential people in health for the year 2025.
In a statement released by NMA President, Prof. Bala Audu, the association described the honour as “a testament to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s bold and visionary reforms in Nigeria’s health sector, which are already delivering measurable results and earning global commendation.”
Prof. Pate’s inclusion in the TIME100 Health list underscores his pivotal role in spearheading transformative health initiatives under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu’s administration. Since assuming office, the minister has driven a wide-ranging reform agenda, anchored by the Nigeria Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative (NHSRII), which has seen the rehabilitation of thousands of primary health centres nationwide and the mass recruitment and training of frontline health workers across all 774 local government areas.
According to the NMA, under Prof. Pate’s stewardship, Nigeria has recorded historic achievements, including the enrolment of 2.4 million Nigerians in health insurance schemes in 2024 alone. His leadership has also ensured expanded access to essential medicines, revitalized health infrastructure, and the establishment of a more equitable, resilient health system that serves all citizens.
A key thrust of Prof. Pate’s reforms has been the strategic attraction of private and international investment into Nigeria’s health sector, particularly in local manufacturing of biologics, vaccines, and pharmaceuticals. His efforts have mobilized billions of dollars in funding and partnerships from global institutions, development agencies, and the private sector, catalyzing unprecedented growth and innovation.
In alignment with President Tinubu’s vision to build a new generation of leaders, Prof. Pate also launched the National Health Fellows Programme — a merit-based initiative that recruits young professionals from every local government area to contribute to the future of Nigeria’s health sector.
“This recognition by TIME is not only a personal honour for Prof. Pate but a powerful endorsement of President Tinubu’s commitment to quality, affordable, and accessible healthcare for all Nigerians,” Prof. Audu stated.
The NMA also extended its congratulations to Dr. Ladidi Bako-Aiyegbusi, Director of Nutrition at the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, who was similarly named among the 2025 TIME100 Health honorees.
As the health sector continues to evolve under dynamic leadership, the NMA reaffirmed its support for policies and programmes that elevate healthcare delivery and position Nigeria as a continental leader in health innovation and equity.
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