MINISTER OF HEALTH PATE LAUNCHES EMPOWER ACADEMY NIGERIA
Abuja, February 5, 2026
The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, has officially launched Empower Academy Nigeria in Abuja, describing it as a strategic initiative aimed at strengthening skills development and deepening Nigeria’s healthcare value chain.
Speaking at the launch, Professor Pate said the academy was established to bridge the growing gap between academic learning and industry-ready skills, particularly in pharmaceutical manufacturing and the life sciences. He noted that while Nigeria has a large pool of talented young people, many lack the practical, hands-on training required to compete effectively in the healthcare and manufacturing sectors.
According to the minister, Empower Academy Nigeria is designed to provide practical, demand-driven training that will produce professionals who are ready to contribute immediately to industry needs. The programme will combine classroom instruction with laboratory practice, mentorship, and factory-style training to ensure participants acquire real-world technical competence.
Professor Pate emphasized that the initiative aligns closely with the vision of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to transform Nigeria into a manufacturing hub and create sustainable, high-quality jobs for citizens. He described the academy as a critical step toward building local capacity, reducing dependence on imports, and strengthening the country’s pharmaceutical and healthcare industries.
In a major boost for youth development, the minister announced that the programme will be free for qualified Nigerians for the next two years, making it accessible to young people from diverse backgrounds who are eager to build careers in healthcare manufacturing and related fields.
The launch of Empower Academy Nigeria marks a significant milestone in the government’s efforts to invest in human capital development, promote industrial growth, and position Nigeria as a competitive player in the global healthcare value chain.
