Lagos State Government has graduated the first cohort of the National Health Fellows and onboarded a new set to strengthen healthcare delivery.
Eko Hot News reports that the event marked a key step in improving health leadership, governance and system performance across the state.
The ceremony was held at the Adeyemi-Bero Auditorium, Secretariat, Alausa-Ikeja.
It brought together stakeholders from federal and state health institutions, development partners and professionals.
The programme is part of the Sector-Wide Approach framework aimed at advancing healthcare reforms.
Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, described the initiative as a strategic investment in human capital.
He noted that the programme was designed to build governance experience among young professionals.
According to him, it provides participants with practical exposure to the realities of public health systems.
Abayomi highlighted the challenges facing the health sector.
He mentioned workforce shortages and the growing complexity of healthcare delivery.
The Commissioner explained that modern healthcare requires multidisciplinary expertise.
He stressed the need for strong data systems, financing models and governance structures.
Abayomi also commended the first cohort for their impactful contributions.
He noted that their presentations showed strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
The Commissioner assured that their recommendations would be reviewed for possible implementation.
He acknowledged initial challenges and promised improved onboarding for the new cohort.
Abayomi emphasised the importance of increasing health insurance uptake.
He said moving away from out-of-pocket payments is key to improving healthcare access.
Representing the Coordinating Minister for Health, Dr. Muntaqa Umar-Sadiq commended the fellows.
He described the programme as a pipeline for future health leaders.
He encouraged participants to apply practical solutions in addressing healthcare challenges.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, Dr. Kemi Ogunyemi, highlighted the role of the fellows.
She described them as key drivers of reform within the healthcare system.
Ogunyemi urged the new cohort to focus on accountability and results.
She emphasised the importance of implementing policies effectively at the grassroots level.
Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health, Dr. Dayo Lajide, described the programme as impactful.
She noted that it has improved coordination and planning within the health sector.
The Lagos State Coordinator of the World Health Organisation, Dr. Chinyere Okafor, praised the initiative.
She described it as timely and relevant to current healthcare challenges.
Speaking for the graduating cohort, Bamidele Oyewumi highlighted their achievements.
He noted that the fellows reached over 5,000 beneficiaries through community interventions.
These included water projects and environmental health campaigns.
He also identified challenges such as workforce gaps and low insurance uptake.
Oyewumi recommended reforms in digital health, financing and community engagement.
Awards were presented to outstanding fellows for their performance.
Olarinoye Sikiru Adeola was recognised as the most outstanding fellow.
Afolabi Toyin Deborah received the award for most innovative.
Olumowo Kamilat Yewande was honoured for excellence in community engagement.
The event concluded with a renewed commitment to strengthening healthcare systems.
Lagos State reaffirmed its dedication to innovation, collaboration and sustainable health reforms.
