Prof Ali Muhammad Pate has been appointed as the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare in Nigeria. Here are some key details about him:
- Early Life and Education: Pate was born on September 6, 1968, in Misau, Bauchi State, Nigeria. He is an alumnus of Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) in Zaria, Kaduna State, where he completed his undergraduate studies. He later pursued further education abroad, including at the University College London, Duke University (where he obtained an MBA), and the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine.
- Health Leadership: Prof Pate is an accomplished global health leader with extensive experience in various health-focused roles, both in Nigeria and internationally. He joined the World Bank Group in 2000 as a Young Professional and worked on health issues across different regions, including Africa and East Asia.
- Government Roles: In Nigeria, he served as the Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of the National Primary Health Care Agency (NPHCDA) from 2008 to 2011. During his tenure, he implemented significant policies to improve healthcare delivery, including initiatives to reduce polio cases and address maternal and child mortality.
- Harvard University and Duke University: After his government service, Prof Pate became a Professor at Duke University’s Global Health Institute. He also had teaching roles at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health and was recognized for his contributions to healthcare in developing countries.
- Global Health Engagement: Prof Pate played a crucial role in various global health organizations, including his role as Chief Executive Officer of Big Win Philanthropy, which invests in children and young people in developing countries. He also served as the Global Director of Health, Nutrition, and Population Global Practice at the World Bank and was involved in the Bank’s COVID-19 global health response.
- Return to Nigeria: In 2023, Pate returned to Nigeria and was appointed as the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare. He relinquished his role as the Chief Executive Officer of Gavi, the global vaccine alliance, to contribute to his home country.
- Recognition and Honors: Prof Pate has received several honors and awards for his contributions to healthcare, including being named a Harvard Health Leader by the Harvard Ministerial Leadership Programme. He was also conferred with the Commander of the Order of the Niger in Nigeria.
- Multiple Roles: Throughout his career, Prof Pate has served on various boards, committees, and panels related to health and development. He is known for his commitment to improving healthcare systems, particularly in developing countries.
- Personal Life: Pate is married and has six children – four daughters and two sons.
On Wednesday, President Bola Tinubu, unveiled the portfolios of 45 ministers nine days after they were confirmed by the Senate during a week-long screening exercise. The ministers will be sworn in by the President at the State House Conference, Aso Villa, Abuja on Monday.
