Pate hails Ihekweazu’s appointment as WHO Health Emergencies Director
The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, has congratulated Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu on his appointment as Executive Director of the World Health Organization (WHO) Health Emergencies Programme.
Dr. Ihekweazu, who succeeds Dr. Mike Ryan, is a renowned global health expert with deep experience in epidemic intelligence and health security. His appointment comes amid rising global public health challenges, including pandemics, climate-related threats, and fragile health systems.
Describing the appointment as “the right choice at the right time,” Professor Pate praised Dr. Ihekweazu as an exceptional leader with the vision and commitment needed to strengthen global emergency preparedness.
“Dr. Ihekweazu is an outstanding public health professional and a loyal team player. His leadership will no doubt bolster global efforts in managing health emergencies,” Pate said.
He added that the evolving nature of public health threats requires bold, compassionate, and trusted leadership, qualities Dr. Ihekweazu has consistently demonstrated throughout his career.
The Health Minister emphasized that Nigeria is proud of Dr. Ihekweazu’s elevation to such a critical global role and expressed the Federal Ministry’s full support for his success at the WHO.
Dr. Ihekweazu previously served as the founding Director-General of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), where he led Nigeria’s response to several outbreaks, including Lassa fever and COVID-19.
The Ministry described his appointment as a major milestone for Nigeria and a testament to the country’s growing contribution to global health leadership.
