Two prominent Nigerian pharmacists, Dr Olubunmi Margaret Ogbodu and Pharm. Timilehin Omole, have been inducted as Fellows of the Academy of Public Health (FAPH) at the 10th Anniversary and 6th Induction Ceremony of the West African Institute of Public Health (WAIPH) held recently in Abuja.
The fellowship was conferred in recognition of their outstanding contributions to public health practice, health systems strengthening, and capacity development in Africa.
Speaking after her induction, Dr Ogbodu described the honour as both a privilege and a call to greater service, noting that it reflects a growing commitment to evidence-based public health and strengthened health systems across Africa.
She also highlighted the significance of being inducted alongside global health leaders, including the Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate who was honoured with Distinguished Fellowship of the Academy of Public Health 2025.
She said thoughtfulness of gender balance and inclusion is evident in these nominations and awards. This is commendable because it is a recognition of the contributions made by women in leadership and decision-making in shaping more effective and inclusive health systems in Africa.
“This fellowship is a responsibility and a call to action to promote innovative health policies and sustainable health outcomes,” she said.
Also reacting, Pharm. Omole, executive director of the International Association of Public Health Logisticians (IAPHL), expressed gratitude for being named on the 2025 Director-General’s Fellows List, describing the recognition as both uplifting and motivating.
“To be counted among 30 exceptional individuals shaping the future of public health in Africa strengthens my resolve to advance resilient health systems and supply chain excellence,” Omole said.
Both pharmacists commended the leadership of WAIPH and the Academy, particularly the Director-General, Dr Francis Ohanyido, and the president of the Academy President, Dr Ferhat Khan, for their commitment to advancing public health in Africa.
The induction on 24th November, 2025 took place during the Academy’s annual conference themed “Digital Innovation and Shared Leadership for Africa’s Non-Communicable Diseases Response,” which featured keynote lectures, technical sessions, a public-health town hall, and the conferment of distinguished fellowship awards.
