The Chairman of Geneith Pharmaceuticals Ltd, Chief Emmanuel Umenwa, and the Managing Director/CEO of CEOAfrica and initiator of the Geneith Health Competition (GHC), Prince Cletus Ilobanafor, have jointly congratulated Nigeria’s Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Mohammed Ali Pate, on his recent global recognition as one of the 100 most influential figures shaping healthcare worldwide.
In a statement issued on behalf of the GHC—powered by Coastal Forte Softgel—the sponsors described Prof. Pate’s recognition as a testament to his unwavering commitment to transforming healthcare in Nigeria and his impactful contributions to global health systems.
“We are proud to congratulate you on this well-deserved honor. It reflects the profound impact of your leadership and innovation in healthcare, both in Nigeria and around the world,” the statement read.
Highlighting Prof. Pate’s previous leadership as Executive Secretary of the National Primary Healthcare Development Agency (NPHCDA), the statement praised his relentless efforts to revitalize primary healthcare, strengthen community health systems, and improve maternal and child health outcomes.
The sponsors also commended Prof. Pate for spearheading Nigeria’s rollout of malaria vaccines—an initiative they described as “strategic and vital,” especially given that malaria accounts for nearly 65% of clinical visits in the country.
In line with the healthcare reform agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, the GHC emphasized that Prof. Pate’s global recognition further positions Nigeria as a rising leader in international health diplomacy and reform.
The statement further applauded his governance approach, which emphasizes collaboration between government agencies, development partners, and the private sector. According to the sponsors, this approach has enhanced transparency and attracted much-needed investments into the health sector.
On pharmaceutical development, the GHC commended Prof. Pate’s commitment to boosting local drug manufacturing, describing it as a strategic step toward achieving health sovereignty and reinforcing the national pharmaceutical value chain.
While acknowledging these achievements, the GHC also called for inclusive dialogue to address tensions within the health sector. They urged Prof. Pate to ensure fairness and equity for all healthcare professionals, reinforcing the importance of upholding the rule of law and providing all health workers with the benefits and recognition they deserve.
“As a global health leader, your moral integrity, empathy, and vision must continue to guide your decisions as you navigate the complexities of Nigeria’s healthcare challenges,” the statement added.
The sponsors concluded by reaffirming their commitment to partnering with the government in the pursuit of Universal Health Coverage (UHC). “We stand with you in your mission to transform Nigeria’s healthcare system and pledge our continued support,” they stated.