From solar-powered vaccine fridges in Borno to cholera prevention drives and tuberculosis referrals in Plateau, young participants in the National Health Fellows Programme (NHF) are changing how primary healthcare works in communities across the country.
The programme was established by the Federal Government in 2025. It engages young Nigerians in identifying health challenges within their own communities and building practical solutions to them.
Over a 12-month fellowship that combines training, mentorship and hands-on experience, participants apply what they learn to real community needs.
Dr. Ashiru Adamu Abubakar, Technical Assistant to the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare on Sector-wide Approach, said the results so far are encouraging.
“We are pleased to see the impact Fellows are making in communities across Nigeria, translating their knowledge and skills into practical solutions to address public health challenges,” he said. “From improving primary healthcare facilities to promoting disease prevention and health awareness, these interventions reflect the commitment of young Nigerians to creating meaningful change. We are encouraged by their contributions and remain committed to supporting young people in driving solutions that improve health outcomes and strengthen healthcare delivery across the country.”
Many of the projects target infrastructure gaps. In Gboko, Borno State, a Fellow is supporting solar-powered vaccine storage at a primary healthcare facility, addressing electricity problems that can compromise vaccine preservation. In Idumuje-Unor, Delta State, another Fellow is leading a solar power installation for a health facility.
At Iyame Primary Health Center in Ondo State, a Fellow is working to revitalise the centre through community advocacy and the provision of essential medical equipment. In Op Base, Okoroete and Iko Town in Akwa Ibom State, projects are focused on laboratory upgrades. In Oke-Agogo, Oyo State, a Fellow is facilitating a waiting shelter and a solar streetlight to improve the facility environment.
Other Fellows are focusing on keeping people from falling ill in the first place. In Goniri, Borno State, a Fellow is driving initiatives on safe water and cholera prevention. In Jos South, a Fellow is supporting tuberculosis referral efforts to connect people with appropriate care. In Essien Udim, Akwa Ibom State, a Fellow is leading screening for non-communicable diseases.
Together, the projects cover a wide range of needs, from disease prevention and health education to infrastructure improvement and community well-being.
Abubakar Hamza, one of the Fellows, said the programme has strengthened his skills, knowledge and commitment to improving primary healthcare services.
“During the National Health Fellows Programme, I learned valuable lessons in leadership, teamwork, stakeholder engagement, community mobilization, data management, and problem-solving skills, while developing practical solutions to improve healthcare delivery,” he said.
