Zamfara Completes Merit-Based Recruitment for National Health Fellowship Program

By Adam Muhammad, Gusau

Zamfara State has completed recruitment interviews for the second cohort of the National Health Fellows Program (NHFP 2.0), a federal initiative aimed at strengthening healthcare leadership across all 774 local government areas in Nigeria.

The program, under the Federal Ministry of Health’s Sector-Wide Approach (SWAp), seeks to place high-caliber, merit-selected health professionals at the grassroots to drive systemic improvements. While awaiting final selections, state officials confirm readiness to integrate the fellows into Zamfara’s public health framework.

Hon. Sama’ila Kwangwami, Chairman of Zurmi Local Government and head of the state’s Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), affirmed that councils are prepared to provide logistics and operational support. He emphasized that fellow safety is a priority, stating: “Considering the security situation, the safety of the fellows will be paramount.”

To ensure community relevance and cultural alignment, traditional leaders participated in the selection process. Alhaji Sambo A. Sambo, Secretary of the Gusau Emirate Council, served on the interview panel to assess candidates’ compatibility with local communities.

Malam Sirajo Gusau, Permanent Secretary of the State Ministry of Health, described the recruitment as “credible, fair, and just,” adding that the fellows will act as catalysts for modernized healthcare delivery.

Dr. Abdullahi Wanzamai, SWAp Desk Officer, reiterated that the process remained strictly merit-based to ensure capable professionals are deployed locally.

The coordinated effort between state, local, and traditional institutions marks a significant step in Nigeria’s strategy to revitalize grassroots health leadership and improve outcomes for rural populations.