KEY POINTS
- Dr. Ihekweazu was appointed Executive Director of the World Health Organization’s Health Emergencies Programme.
- He replaces Dr. Mike Ryan, who successfully led the WHO response to COVID-19.
- Previously, Ihekweazu was the head of the NCDC and managed roles at the WHO.
Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu will take over from Dr. Mike Ryan as the new Executive Director of the WHO Health Emergency Operational Centre.
This appointment is one of several changes led by WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Ghebreyesus to help WHO deal effectively with global health problems.
The career of Ihekweazu in global public health
Dr. Ihekweazu used to be the Assistant Director-General for Health Emergency Intelligence and Surveillance Systems at WHO. He also served as Director-General of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), earning acclaim around the world for helping the country better respond to epidemics.
When he was appointed Acting Regional Director for Africa at the WHO in February, it increased the visibility of his positive impact in global health governance.
Now, Ihekweazu’s responsibilities as head of WHO’s top department include leading the world’s response to health emergencies.
Outcomes in the world and nations
Many Nigerians gave positive feedback to the news. The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Ali Pate, issued a statement congratulating Dr. Ihekweazu.
Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu is an excellent leader and a strong member of the team. His time in office is certain to keep global health protection and preparedness at a high level, according to Pate.
He said that choosing him at these times was appropriate because of pandemics, climate-related problems for health and weak healthcare organizations.
We are living in a swiftly changing world and the future of global health is up to fearless, trusted and kind leaders. Dr. He embodies everything I have described, as well as even more. The WHO has selected an excellent artist.
