New Leadership for National Health Technology Authority
Dr. Obi Adigwe has been appointed as the inaugural National Coordinator of the newly established National Health Technology and Data Analysis Authority (NHTDAO), a decision approved by President Bola Tinubu. This initiative aims to advance Nigeria’s health technology landscape.
Establishment of NHTDAO
The NHTDAO will operate under the Office of the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Care, according to a statement from Presidential Spokesperson Bayo Onanuga. This agency is designed to serve as a central platform that aligns and coordinates the country’s digital health agenda, complementing the existing functions of relevant departments and agencies.
Roles and Responsibilities
One of the primary missions of NHTDAO is to establish standards that will harmonize and empower both public and private health institutions. Additionally, it will implement the National Digital Health Architecture, which received the green light from the National Health Council in November 2025.
Dr. Adigwe’s Background
In his capacity as the Director of the National Institute for Pharmaceutical Research and Development, Dr. Adigwe has leveraged scientific advancements to drive initiatives in artificial intelligence, translational research, and technology transfer. His leadership has been pivotal in securing substantial funding, including a 300 million yen grant for nanotechnology and a crucial support grant from AFREXIMBank for Africa’s inaugural Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient training facility.
Significant Achievements
Dr. Adigwe was instrumental in developing a strategic roadmap that laid the foundation for an €18 million grant from the European Union, marking the largest funding of its kind in Africa. Notably, during the recent pandemic, he played a key role in producing an analysis that debunked misinformation surrounding organic formulations of the coronavirus.
Steering Committee Composition
The NHTDAO’s strategic direction and oversight will be managed by an 18-member steering committee. This group includes prominent figures such as Coordinating Minister of Health Professor Muhammad Ali Pate and Mr. Olaniyi Yusuf, Chairman of the Nigeria Economic Summit Group, serving as co-chairs. Other members include various health ministers and representatives from state health agencies, as well as stakeholders from the industry and community sectors.
Vision for Nigeria’s Health System
President Tinubu envisions the NHTDAO playing a crucial role in propelling Nigeria towards a secure, interoperable, and data-driven health system. This initiative aligns with his administration’s “New Hope” agenda, aiming to enhance health outcomes for all citizens.
