The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, has extended heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu on his appointment as the Executive Director of the World Health Organization (WHO) Health Emergencies Programme. This significant appointment comes shortly after the election of Professor Mohamed Janabi of Tanzania as the new WHO Regional Director for Africa. The elections were held during a special session of the WHO Regional Committee for Africa in Geneva, just before the World Health Assembly.
Dr. Ihekweazu assumed the role of acting Regional Director for WHO Africa in February 2025, following the passing of Dr. Faustine Ndugulile, who had been elected to the position in August 2024. With a rich background in infectious disease epidemiology, Dr. Ihekweazu has more than two decades of experience in public health leadership. He previously served as Director General of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) from 2016 to 2021 and held roles in international institutions like the South African National Institute for Communicable Diseases, the UK’s Health Protection Agency, and the Robert Koch Institute in Germany.
Minister Pate, via his official X (formerly Twitter) account, praised Ihekweazu’s appointment, describing it as timely amid global health challenges such as pandemics, climate-induced health risks, and weak health systems. He characterized Ihekweazu as a “visionary leader” whose skills and commitment to public health will significantly contribute to global health security. He also pledged the Federal Ministry of Health’s full support as Ihekweazu begins his new role.
Meanwhile, the newly elected Regional Director, Prof. Janabi, brings a strong background in healthcare leadership. Born in 1962, he currently serves as Senior Health Advisor to the Tanzanian President and Executive Director of Muhimbili National Hospital. His career includes leading roles at the Jakaya Kikwete Cardiac Institute and extensive academic credentials from institutions in Japan, Australia, and Ukraine. Janabi’s vision focuses on achieving a healthier and more resilient Africa through universal health coverage, disease prevention, climate-resilient systems, and sustainable healthcare financing.
In addition to his medical and academic contributions, Janabi has been involved in Tanzanian sports development, notably serving on the board of Simba Sports Club and currently heading the Drug and Doping Committee for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.
Both appointments have received praise from top WHO officials. WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Ghebreyesus congratulated Janabi, affirming the organization’s support, while WHO Nigeria Representative Dr. Kazadi Mulombo welcomed his vision and pledged collaboration toward a healthier Africa.