Tinubu congratulates Nigerian professor appointed as CEPI CEO

President Bola Tinubu has congratulated Professor Ibrahim Abubakar on his appointment as the new Chief Executive Officer of the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI). The President's office described the appointment as a significant recognition of Nigeria's increasing influence in global health leadership.

In a statement released by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu highlighted Abubakar's credentials as a distinguished Nigerian epidemiologist and global health expert. Currently a Professor of Infectious Disease Epidemiology at University College London, Abubakar is set to join CEPI in March 2027 and officially take over as CEO in April 2027. His career spans over three decades in medicine, public health research, policy, and international health leadership.

Tinubu emphasized Abubakar's long-standing contributions to global health, including his roles at University College London and his involvement in international efforts to bolster pandemic preparedness. The President believes Abubakar's appointment is a testament to the excellence of Nigerian professionals on the international stage. He also commended CEPI for its dedication to collaboration, innovation, and equitable access to vaccines and health tools.

The President also acknowledged the outgoing CEO, Dr. Richard Hatchett, for his leadership since CEPI's inception in 2017. Tinubu expressed confidence in Abubakar's ability to lead CEPI through its 2027-2031 strategy and advance its mission to rapidly respond to future pandemics. Nigeria has pledged its continued support for international partnerships aimed at enhancing global health security and scientific cooperation.

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The president believes Prof. Abubakar’s appointment is a significant recognition of Nigeria’s growing contribution to global health leadership and a testament to the excellence, expertise and commitment of Nigerian professionals working on the international stage.