Chaste Christopher I.

Some Public Sector Fix That Can Transform Nigeria's Healthcare System In a recent sessions on healthcare system optimization, we explored the intersection of private sector efficiency & public sector structure. We realized that Nigeria’s healthcare challenges aren’t just about funding or infrastructure—they’re also about adapting the system to overcome inefficiencies that have long hindered better public health outcomes. It was clear from my presentation that design-driven, system-oriented approaches are needed to push the sector forward. The goal? To make our healthcare system more adaptable, efficient, & able to overcome the frictions that currently impair outcomes. Where we landed? 1. Revitalizing Primary Healthcare Centers: There’s no doubt that the government’s efforts to revamp 10,000 primary healthcare centers across the country is a bold move. But without efficient management, these centers risk becoming overburdened. With proper oversight, these centers could provide consistent care to over 70% of the rural population, significantly reducing pressure on secondary & tertiary facilities. 2. Bringing Health Insurance into Focus: The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) reform is set to expand coverage to 83 million Nigerians. That’s impressive, but we discussed how to ensure that bureaucratic bottlenecks don’t undercut this progress. Operational efficiency could reduce healthcare access gaps by 20%, especially in last-mile communities. 3. The Power of eHealth and Telemedicine: We’ve seen firsthand how adopting telemedicine & AI-driven diagnostics in pilot programs can slash wait times & improve patient care quality. A well-executed eHealth strategy could increase efficiency by 15-20% over the next 5 years. Our conversation centered on how public hospitals can integrate these technologies without overwhelming their systems. 4. Scaling Public-Private Partnerships (PPP): We looked at Lagos as a model where PPP projects have improved hospital efficiency by 25%. If more states adopt this model, we could see a significant reduction in the strain on public health facilities. PPPs offer a blueprint for marrying government structure with private sector agility. So, what’s next? For Nigeria to truly transform its healthcare system, we need more than just investment—we need to rethink how we operate. It’s about designing a system that is efficient, adaptable, and centered around patient outcomes. From our discussion, it’s clear that public-private cooperation & technology integration will play critical roles in making this happen. How do you see this public-private approach working in Nigeria’s healthcare system? Let’s keep the conversation going. Muhammad Ali Pate U.S. Department of State | Bureau of Global Health Security and Diplomacy #Healthcare #PublicSector #PrivateSector #Health #SystemOptimization #Efficiency #HealthcareTransformation #eHealth #HealthSystemReform #HealthcareInnovation #PublicHealthEfficiency #DigitalHealth

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It is commendable to see the recent Human Resource for Health policy, assented to by the President, which aims to address the pressing issue of healthcare worker migration that has severely impacted Nigeria’s healthcare system. This policy is a significant step towards providing a comprehensive solution to retain our healthcare professionals. 👏 However, while we celebrate this progress, it is imperative that we do not overlook the security of the few doctors who remain dedicated to serving our nation. The ongoing captivity of Dr. Ganiyat Popoola, who has been held by kidnappers for over seven months, is a stark reminder of the dangers our healthcare workers face. The government's silence on this matter is disheartening and sends a discouraging message to those in the medical field. 🆘 Imagine if a politician or even the Honourable Minister for Health himself were in a similar situation—the response would undoubtedly be swift and intense. We need to apply the same urgency and determination to secure Dr. Ganiyat’s release and ensure the safety of all healthcare workers in Nigeria. The current passive response is unacceptable and contributes to the reluctance of doctors to remain in the country. 🚑 While it is encouraging to see the Honourable Minister for Health, Muhammad Ali Pate driving initiatives to improve working conditions for doctors and other healthcare workers, security must be a top priority. We must protect those who dedicate their lives to protecting us. 🩺 Let’s not just drive policy; let’s drive action and ensure a safe and supportive environment for our healthcare heroes. #HealthcareHeroes #SaveDrGaniyat #HumanResourceForHealth #NigeriaHealthcare #SecureOurDoctors

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On Tuesday, August 20, 2024, I had the privilege of representing my Executive Director of #ARHR at the launch of a research dissemination meeting focused on the “Assessment of the Economic Burden of Living with NCDs in Ghana”. I commend the #Ghana NCD Alliance (#GhNCDA) team for their bold initiative in facilitating this important research. As an organization committed to championing the rights of women and girls, particularly within the realm of primary healthcare (PHC), the #Alliance for Reproductive Health Rights (#ARHR) highlighted the dual burden that NCDs place on #women, which differs significantly from their impact on men. We recommended that future research place greater emphasis on the substantial economic burden NCDs impose on women and girls compared to men, to ensure that policies and budget allocations are appropriately tailored. Women in Ghana frequently bear a triple burden: reproductive, productive, and community responsibilities which increase their risk of #NCDs. NCDs affect women both directly and indirectly, compounding these challenges. When women are directly impacted by NCDs, their circumstances are particularly difficult. In addition to their reproductive duties, such as childcare and meal preparation, women also engage in productive roles, including work (farming). This additional workload often exacerbates their health conditions, increasing the risk of further deterioration. Moreover, women are indirectly affected when their partners and children suffer from NCDs. In such situations, they must care for both their children and spouses, all while managing their other responsibilities. Without adequate support, the cumulative stress can lead to women developing similar conditions. It is, therefore, essential to consider the specific needs of women and the unique impact of NCDs on them when formulating policies. This will inform the development of gender-sensitive budgetary decisions that address their needs effectively.

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Turning Challenges into Opportunities: The Story Behind We BuyNSell Everything. When I first arrived in Ondo State as an NYSC Corps member, I was full of hope and excitement for the year ahead. But settling in wasn’t as easy as I had imagined. I was scammed out of my house rent, leaving me stranded and struggling to find a safe place to stay. On top of that, with the rising cost of living and inflation, affording new items felt impossible. I soon discovered I wasn’t alone—many Corps members were dealing with the same challenges. 💡 That’s when the idea for We Buy₦Sell Everything was born. I realized that Corps members, like me, often rely on fairly used items to settle in comfortably at the start of their service year, and at the end of service, we face the opposite challenge—how to sell off those items before moving on to the next phase of life. What started as a personal struggle became an opportunity to create a platform that solves real problems. 👉 With We Buy₦Sell Everything, we provide a secure and user-friendly marketplace where Corps members—and Nigerians as a whole—can: 1️⃣ Buy fairly used items affordably to ease settling in. 2️⃣ Sell items securely at the end of their service year to recoup value. 3️⃣ Enjoy safe transactions with features like escrow payment systems and quality assurance. I’m humbled and honored to share that We BuyNSell Everything has been recognized by the Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, with an award and a ₦3 million grant. This recognition isn’t just for me—it’s for every Corps member who inspired this idea and everyone who has supported us along the way. To read more about this milestone and what it means for our company’s mission, check out the official announcement on our page: We BuyNSell Everything To my fellow Corps members, entrepreneurs, and dreamers: Sometimes, the biggest challenges we face are the seeds for our greatest opportunities. Thank you for believing in our mission. Together, we’ll continue to turn obstacles into solutions that improve everyone's lives. "What challenges have you turned into opportunities? I’d love to hear your story—share in the comments!"

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AI ACADEMY - In partnership with THE COMMONWEALTH AI Academy empowers Nigerians with essential AI skills to innovate, solve challenges, and access global opportunities. COURSE BENEFITS Master AI Fundamentals Build a comprehensive understanding of AI concepts, ethical practices, and their real-world applications to solve challenges. Create Social Impact Learn to design AI-driven solutions addressing societal issues while fostering sustainable development in your community and beyond. Hands-On Learning Gain practical experience working with popular AI tools and frameworks, developing innovative projects that showcase your skills. Earn Certification Obtain a professional AI certification that enhances your career prospects and credibility in AI-related fields and industries. SPECIAL OPPORTUNITIES FOR UNDERGRADUATES Compete nationally Demonstrate your AI knowledge and innovation in national competitions, standing out as an exceptional and talented practitioner. Intern with Intel Corporation Collaborate with global AI experts during an Intel Corporation internship, gaining invaluable hands-on experience and mentorship. Enrol here: https://lnkd.in/ddyXthPA Deadline: January 30th, 2025 Share to your followers, they might be interested.

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Here is a snippet of my article in The Guardian Newspaper a few weeks ago💡 _______________________________________ In Nigeria's growing digital market, prioritizing user-centred product design is essential for success. Business brands that focus on innovative designs capture consumer attention and effectively adapt to market shifts, while those that don't suffer the harsh effect of product service/designs often prevent the organisation from keeping pace with change and lack a clear product-market fit, leading to market obsolescence. It is crucial to embrace agility and a customer-focused approach through thorough market research and active engagement. To thrive, businesses must invest in understanding their audience while continuously adapting their strategies. #ProductManagement #Nigeria #ProductManager #ProductGrowth

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In a groundbreaking move for cybersecurity education, Babcock University has announced a strategic partnership with ThinkCyber Nigeria, a collaboration that promises to redefine the standards of training for aspiring cybersecurity professionals. Professor AKINTOYE Ishola Rufus, Head of Babcock University Business School, elaborated on the significance of this partnership during an exclusive interview with Anthony Nwosu, emphasizing the urgent need for industry-aligned training in today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape. The partnership centers on the implementation of ThinkCyber’s CYBERIUM ARENA, an innovative cyber simulation environment that provides students and corporate professionals with hands-on experience. Professor Rufus stated, “Our collaboration with ThinkCyber is transformative. It enables us to equip our students and industry professionals with practical skills necessary to combat current and emerging cyber threats effectively. This immersive learning experience is critical in preparing them for the complexities of the cybersecurity landscape.” Opened in September 2022 in Ilishan, Ogun State, the Babcock Business School employs a unique 30/70 training model, where 70% of the curriculum is dedicated to practical, hands-on experience while 30% focuses on theoretical knowledge. This innovative approach is designed to address the skills gap in the job market, particularly in fields like accounting and technology. Professor Rufus explained, “We deeply believe in the power of experiential learning. Our graduates are not just armed with degrees; they emerge as industry-ready professionals who can contribute value from day one.” https://lnkd.in/dT7bgnGh

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Technology in Healthcare: A Tool, Not a Threat! Healthcare today demands that we leverage evolving technologies to improve both health care delivery and health outcomes. Today's town hall session was truly enlightening! Oluwabukunmi Sowunmi and Elilta Esubalew Gebeyehu expertly guided us through the various ways technology is transforming pharmacy practice, as well as the untapped possibilities it holds for the future. One of the most exciting aspects of the discussion was how it sparked creativity within the group, opening our minds to the future of pharmacy. We explored emerging areas like AI, 3D printing, wearable health sensors, precision medicine and nanotechnology—Oluwabukunmi Sowunmi provided great insights on these innovations. Elilta Esubalew Gebeyehu took it a step further, delving into current advancements such as telepharmacy, mobile health apps, point-of-care testing, and blockchain for supply chain management, emphasizing their growing importance in modern healthcare. I thoroughly enjoyed the session and can’t wait to share more about my journey with Pharma Incubation Hub and the valuable insights I’m gaining each week. A huge thanks to our facilitators, and Pharma Incubation Hub for such an enriching experience!💫 #healthtechnology #innovation #pih

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A few days ago, I shared my thoughts on the critical need for improved regulation in Nigeria’s healthcare system, particularly around safety, accessibility, and affordability. The response was overwhelming, and I’m grateful for the deep insights shared by many of you. It’s clear from your feedback that while regulation is crucial, the conversation needs to address additional concerns: • 𝐀𝐟𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐝𝐚𝐛𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐎𝐮𝐭-𝐨𝐟-𝐏𝐨𝐜𝐤𝐞𝐭 𝐏𝐚𝐲𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬: As Dr Oteguonor Ogumor pointed out, 70% of our population relies on out-of-pocket payments. Without strategic financial frameworks, even accessible services can become unaffordable. Legislation is essential, but 𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐤𝐞𝐝 𝐢𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 is what will bridge this gap. • 𝐈𝐧𝐬𝐮𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐠𝐞: Dr.Raja Dutta(Major retired) Director Hospital highlighted the shortcomings in our current health insurance system. We must create innovative financing models that increase enrollment and provide broader, more efficient coverage to tackle high premiums and slow reimbursements. • 𝐏𝐮𝐛𝐥𝐢𝐜-𝐏𝐫𝐢𝐯𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩𝐬 (𝐏𝐏𝐏): The private sector’s role is vital. As Dayo Adewoye (CSC, CCCS) noted, the government must fulfil its commitment to funding healthcare, but we also need more 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐞𝐢𝐠𝐧 𝐝𝐢𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐭 𝐢𝐧𝐯𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 (𝐅𝐃𝐈) and collaboration between public and private sectors. As we continue this journey, I believe our healthcare reform should: 1. Prioritise innovative financing models to make healthcare more affordable. 2. Build more efficient health insurance frameworks. 3. Leverage PPI to ensure sustained improvements in healthcare infrastructure. What are your thoughts on how we can implement these changes? Let’s continue to collaborate and work towards a healthcare system that serves every Nigerian. 𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐯𝐨𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬.

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Networking can be a powerful tool for career advancement and personal growth. This weekend thanks to SisterSpeaks Global & Heels4Pads Foundation Power Learn Project and African Women In Tech - AWIT- at the Inaugural Women In Tech Brunch I had an opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, the phenomenal Tech women from Base Titanium, Anastasiah Muchemi, Joan Kago, who expanded my network, I gained valuable insights, and uncovered new opportunities. Attending networking events can be a game-changer for both personal and professional growth. By stepping outside of your comfort zone and connecting with like-minded individuals, you can expand your network, gain valuable insights, and uncover new opportunities. Key benefits of networking events include: Expanding your professional circle: Meeting people from different industries and backgrounds can broaden your perspective and open doors to new collaborations. Learning from others: Gaining insights and knowledge from experienced professionals can accelerate your career development. Discovering new opportunities: Networking events can lead to job offers, partnerships, or business ventures. Building relationships: Strong connections with other professionals can provide ongoing support and encouragement. By actively participating in networking events and cultivating meaningful relationships, you can significantly enhance your career prospects and personal development. Looking forward to future Women in Tech events and mentoring future women in tech through building Confidence and Communication: My passion is to ignite the confidence of young people by fostering their public speaking abilities and equipping them with the social-emotional tools they need to thrive in life. #lesstresscommunication #Networking #Mentorship #womeninTech

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It is week 52 of 2024, and here is your weekly reminder to #DoHardThings and #TrustTheProcess this week I got help from the folks Coauthor to summarize what has been a phenomenal year. In 2024, I learned that transforming Africa's digital landscape requires both unwavering conviction and strategic patience. From watching pastors embrace AI in churches to witnessing women breaking digital barriers, every milestone reinforced that sustainable change needs both bold vision and methodical execution. This year proved what happens when we commit to building Africa's digital future: • Advanced AI governance discourse while advocating for Africa-first approaches • Expanded board influence through new roles at The Tech Interactive and Women in Digital Economy Fund • Grew Qhala 's impact across sectors while maintaining focus on sustainable transformation • Built partnerships that turned digital inclusion from concept to reality Three posts that captured our journey and resonated deeply: "AI in the Church" - When technology meets people where they are, transformation happens naturally. From pastors embracing AI to communities seeing practical applications, this showed how innovation spreads organically. https://lnkd.in/dP4EMg82 "36% of Women in Sub-Saharan Africa Don't Use Internet" - Moving beyond manifestos to tangible action in closing the digital gender gap. The Women in the Digital Economy Fund represents our commitment to real change. https://lnkd.in/den-5Q_H "4 Years of Kosher Entrepreneurship" - With every elevated platform comes responsibility to generations past and future. Our mandate remains bigger than immediate gains. https://lnkd.in/dJgac3gZ Looking to 2025: Beyond AI regulation debates, we're focused on building fundamental pillars - expanding African datasets, developing local talent, increasing compute capacity, and growing our AI market. The opportunity isn't just in keeping pace with global innovation, but in ensuring it serves all Africans. To every stakeholder, team member, and partner who's joined us in this journey - the process isn't always smooth, but the transformation is worth it. Africa's digital future demands that we keep doing hard things. #DoHardThings #TrustTheProcess #AIinAfrica #DigitalTransformation --

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THE KEY TO STAYING RELEVANT Embrace innovation to remain relevant - That was one of my takeaways from the town hall meeting on Wednesday facilitated by fellow PIH cohort members Oluwabukunmi Sowunmi and Elilta Esubalew 🇪🇹. The meeting topic, “Designing innovative solutions to healthcare needs”, was well dissected by the two moderators. They spoke about the innovations in the healthcare profession and challenged us to think outside the box and be innovative. Oluwabukunmi Sowunmi gave a few examples of recent innovations in the Pharmacy profession, including 3D printing, nanotechnology and wearables, and Elilta Esubalew 🇪🇹 threw out questions to make us brainstorm on how we could think up innovations like those. My key takeaway: Be innovative. Work your brain. Reflect on problems around you that you can solve; perhaps you have once wished that there was a device or app to help you with something? It might never be developed if you don't take the initiative. Upskill and collaborate with experts that can create solutions to those problems and bring your ideas to life. Stay innovative and you will always be relevant. The town hall session was enlightening, special thanks to Oluwabukunmi Sowunmi and Elilta Esubalew 🇪🇹 for doing justice to the topic, and many thanks to Pharma Incubation Hub for this learning opportunity. Share your thoughts about this post in the comments. Have you ever wished there was a technology for something? What digital skills will be required to create that technology?

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Did you know... Governor Soludo's administration is also leveraging technology to improve healthcare in Anambra State? The Anambra State Health Facility Monitoring and Accreditation Unit (ASHEFAMU) with its dedicated e-platform was recently launched in Awka, the state's capital. This platform allows for real-time registration and licensing of health facilities, data collection and analysis for better decision-making and public access to a directory of accredited facilities. Residents can now find health facilities offering specific services and report any issues they encounter with health facilities. The initiative aims to eliminate quackery in the healthcare system by identifying and regulating health facilities and ensuring healthcare providers practice within their expertise. This is also a big step towards achieving national healthcare goals by strengthening health systems, improving service delivery, ensuring accountability. ASHEFAMU is a prime example of Governor Soludo's commitment to using technology for public health advancements. Visit https://lnkd.in/gEDyzU5N today and experience healthcare on another new level! #EverythingTechnologyTechnologyEverywhere #Nowyouknow #SolutionisHere

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Honored to Join the Tony Elumelu Foundation as a Mentor! I'm thrilled to announce that I've been selected as a mentor for the Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF) network! This prestigious organization empowers African entrepreneurs by providing them with critical resources, mentorship, and funding. Why Mentorship Matters in Africa As a BDS expert, I believe mentorship is crucial for fostering a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem, especially in Africa. Many young African entrepreneurs lack access to the knowledge and guidance needed to navigate the complexities of business. Mentorship bridges this gap by providing them with: 1. Business Fundamentals: Sharing the "science" of entrepreneurship - from business model development to financial management. 2. Strategic Guidance: Helping them refine their ideas, identify opportunities, and overcome challenges. 3. Network Building: Connecting them with valuable resources and potential investors. The Power of Shared Knowledge I'm excited to leverage my experience as a BDS consultant to guide and support TEF entrepreneurs. Together, we can build a stronger and more vibrant entrepreneurial landscape across Africa. Join the Movement! Are you passionate about empowering African entrepreneurs? Consider becoming a mentor or applying for the TEF Entrepreneurship Programme! #TEF #Mentorship #Entrepreneurship #Africa

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Access to reliable, affordable internet is a game-changer, especially for those learning tech skills in Nigeria. As someone deeply involved in initiatives that support tech education and innovation, I can’t help but worry about the recent Starlink price increase and what it means for the future of our tech ecosystem. Tech hubs across Nigeria have been leveraging Starlink to provide stable internet for learners and entrepreneurs, helping them develop the skills needed to thrive in the digital economy. But with rising costs, these hubs may struggle to maintain the same level of support, potentially limiting opportunities for those who rely on these resources to build their careers. In my work, I’ve seen firsthand how access to technology impacts productivity, innovation, and economic growth. This price hike raises serious concerns about the accessibility of tech education and its long-term impact on skill development. With competition limited, it’s unclear how we’ll be able to sustain affordable access for those who need it most. How do you think this price increase will affect tech hubs, learners, and overall productivity in Nigeria? I’d love to hear your thoughts on how we can tackle these challenges and ensure that tech education remains accessible to all. #Starlink #TechSkills #TechHubs #Nigeria #Innovation #Productivity #TechEducation #AffordableInternet #TechTalent #DigitalSkills

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This December I'll be sharing on Project management essentials with the Abuja State Corp members ( Digital Literacy Champion CDS group;. One major concept of sharing ideas or facilitating sessions that I have picked over time (I think first from John Iyoha) Is breaking down hard principles into very basic chunk of information using relatable examples. We would seek to explain project management not just as a mental concept but as practical everyday role. Looking forward to the sessions #projectmanagement #pmp #training

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