The sponsors and initiators of the Geneith Health Competition (GHC) have congratulated the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Mohammed Ali Pate, on his recent inclusion among the 100 most influential global figures shaping healthcare.
In a joint statement issued by Chief Emmanuel Umenwa, Chairman of Geneith Pharmaceuticals Ltd and sponsor of the GHC, and Prince Cletus Ilobanafor, MD/CEO of CEOAfrica and initiator of the competition, Prof. Pate was praised for his transformative leadership and tireless contributions to Nigeria’s health sector.
The recognition, according to the statement, underscores Prof. Pate’s commitment to health system reforms both locally and globally. “We are proud to congratulate you on this well-deserved honor. It symbolizes the profound impact you have made in shaping healthcare perspectives worldwide,” they said.
The GHC, powered by Coatal Forte Softgel, noted that Prof. Pate’s global accolade aligns with the Tinubu administration’s broader agenda to implement life-enhancing reforms across key sectors, including health.
Highlighting his previous role as Executive Secretary of the National Primary Healthcare Development Agency (NPHCDA), the statement applauded Prof. Pate’s efforts to strengthen primary healthcare, boost health equity, and expand access to maternal and child health services through revitalized frontline facilities and an expanded community health workforce.
The organization also commended his leadership in Nigeria’s fight against malaria, particularly with the introduction of malaria vaccines, describing it as a strategic move to address a disease responsible for nearly 65% of clinical visits in the country.
Prof. Pate’s governance approach—marked by effective collaboration among government, development partners, and the private sector—was also acknowledged for enhancing transparency and attracting critical investments into Nigeria’s healthcare system.
On pharmaceutical development, GHC praised his push for local drug manufacturing, describing it as a transformative step towards achieving health sovereignty and strengthening Nigeria’s pharmaceutical value chain.
However, the statement also touched on recent tensions within the health sector, urging the minister to ensure inclusive dialogue and fair treatment of all healthcare professionals. “As a global health leader, we trust you to uphold the rule of law and ensure that all health workers receive their rightful benefits and privileges,” the group stated.
They emphasized the need for team-based approaches and interprofessional collaboration in solving Nigeria’s complex health challenges, expressing confidence in Prof. Pate’s ability to provide sustainable solutions.
In closing, the Geneith Health Competition reaffirmed its commitment to partnering with the government to achieve Universal Health Coverage (UHC) in Nigeria, pledging continued support for the minister’s health sector initiatives.
