Tinubu Establishes National Health Technology Office, Appoints Dr. Obi Adigwe as Pioneer Coordinator
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the establishment of the National Health Technology and Data Analytics Office (NHTDAO) as part of efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s digital healthcare system and improve health service delivery nationwide.
The President also approved the appointment of Dr. Obi Adigwe as the pioneer National Coordinator of the newly created office, which will operate under the Office of the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare.
According to a State House press release issued on June 26, 2026, the NHTDAO will serve as the central coordinating platform for Nigeria’s digital health agenda. The office is expected to drive collaboration among public and private healthcare institutions while ensuring that digital health initiatives across the country operate under a unified framework.
Rather than replacing the responsibilities of existing health agencies, the new office will complement and strengthen their operations by promoting interoperability, setting national standards for digital health systems, and implementing the National Digital Health Architecture approved by the National Council on Health in November 2025.
The administration believes the initiative will enhance healthcare delivery through improved use of technology, reliable health data management, and evidence-based decision-making across all levels of the health sector.
Dr. Adigwe brings extensive experience in health innovation and research to his new role. As Director General of the National Institute for Pharmaceutical Research and Development (NIPRD), he has championed initiatives in artificial intelligence, translational research, nanotechnology, and technology transfer.
His achievements include coordinating a ¥300 million nanotechnology grant, facilitating an AFREXIMBank-supported project that established Africa’s first Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (API) Training Facility, and leading the development of a roadmap that secured an €18 million European Union grant—the largest awarded in Africa within the thematic area. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he also gained international recognition for conducting the world’s first scientific analysis that challenged claims surrounding the Covid Organics herbal preparation.
To provide strategic leadership and oversight, the NHTDAO will be guided by a Steering Committee co-chaired by the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, and Chairman of the Nigerian Economic Summit Group, Mr. Olaniyi Yusuf. The committee also includes senior officials from the Federal Ministry of Health, technology agencies, health institutions, state governments, and representatives of the healthcare industry.
President Tinubu expressed confidence that the establishment of the NHTDAO will accelerate Nigeria’s transition to a secure, integrated, and data-driven healthcare system capable of improving health outcomes for millions of Nigerians. The initiative aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes innovation, digital transformation, and improved public service delivery.
ALSO READ: FRSC Opens 2026 Nationwide Recruitment, Announces Free Online Application
The announcement was made by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
