11/19/2025
Edo State National Health Fellows Host Facebook Live Event, Showcase Community Impact and Invite Applications for Cohort 2
Cohort 1 Fellows of the National Health Fellows Program in Edo State hosted a vibrant Facebook live session where they discussed the work they have carried out across their Local Government Areas, the outcomes of their projects, and the opportunities available for prospective applicants interested in joining Cohort 2.
The session featured eight Fellows who represent various LGAs across Edo State:
Fatimah Ahmad, Etsako Northeast;
Haleemah Ukashah, Etsako West;
James Ogedegbe, Esan West;
Victoria Isaac, Etsako Central;
Favour Ebozele, Esan Northeast;
Lucy Isibor, Ikpoba Okha;
Tina U, Ovia North;
and Esohe Iyoha, Uhunode.
During the live conversation, the Fellows shared updates on the progress made in their communities, touching on health initiatives, advocacy efforts, and facility improvements. They also spoke about how the fellowship has enhanced their leadership skills and equipped them to address pressing public health challenges at the local level.
A notable highlight was the acknowledgment of the leadership and support provided by the Director General of the Edo State Diaspora Agency, Dr. Loretta Ogboro Okor. Through collaborative efforts with the Fellows and key partners, the state has achieved several meaningful milestones. Among them are two nearly completed dialysis centers funded by the Edo National Association Worldwide (ENAW) one situated in Okpella in Etsako Northeast, championed by Fatimah Ahmad, and the other in Ekpoma in Esan West, represented by James Ogedegbe.
Other achievements shared during the session included the successful relocation of a Health Post in Uromi in Esan Northeast through the leadership of Fellow Favour Ebozele, and the renovation of a primary healthcare center in Uhunode LGA spearheaded by Esohe Iyoha. Renovation work is also ongoing in Etsako West under the supervision of Haleemah Ukashah. She further announced that her advocacy had prompted the House of Representatives member representing her constituency to approve the construction of a block of six classrooms to reduce overcrowding in schools and support safer learning environments.
Beyond these tangible improvements, the Fellows highlighted the mentorship structure of the program as a key strength. They noted that consistent guidance from mentors has sharpened their problem solving skills, improved their confidence, and enabled them to deliver meaningful results. According to Haleemah Ukashah, the mentorship experience has been exceptional, and she encouraged future Fellows to make the most of it.
As the live session wrapped up, the Fellows extended an open invitation to young graduates between 25 and 35 years old across Edo State to take advantage of the application window for Cohort 2. They described the fellowship as a rare opportunity to serve their communities, develop leadership capacity, and join a growing network of emerging public health leaders.
Applications for Cohort 2 are currently open and will close on 30 November 2025.
Prospective applicants can apply through the official portal: https://healthfellows.ng/apply.
