Africa CDC Appoints Osinbajo As Strategic Adviser

The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention has appointed former Nigerian Vice-President, Yemi Osinbajo, as a senior strategic adviser to its Director-General, Jean Kaseya.

The appointment was disclosed in a statement released on Monday, as the continental health body intensifies efforts to strengthen Africa’s healthcare systems and global influence.

According to the agency, Osinbajo’s appointment comes at a crucial phase in the implementation of its Africa Health Security and Sovereignty agenda.

The initiative aims to boost Africa’s voice in global health governance, increase domestic healthcare funding, accelerate local production of medical supplies, and improve preparedness for future pandemics.

Kaseya said the former vice-president’s wealth of experience across multiple sectors makes him well-suited for the role.

“Professor Osinbajo brings exceptional experience at the intersection of governance, finance, law, and diplomacy,” he said.

“At a time when Africa must act with greater ambition and authority on the future of health, his leadership will be invaluable.

“This appointment reflects Africa CDC’s commitment to mobilising African leadership of the highest calibre in service of the continent’s health security, sovereignty, and development.”

In his new capacity, Osinbajo is expected to provide strategic guidance on Africa’s role in reshaping global health systems.

His responsibilities will also include advising on sustainable healthcare financing, strengthening local production of medical goods, fostering strategic partnerships, and shaping policy direction for both Africa CDC and the African Union.

Osinbajo served as Nigeria’s vice-president from 2015 to 2023, where he played a key role in economic and social policy formulation.

He previously served as Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice in Lagos State between 1999 and 2007.

During his time in office, he chaired Nigeria’s Economic Sustainability Committee, led reforms under the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council, and contributed to the implementation of the country’s social investment programmes.