President Bola Tinubu has described the appointment of Nigerian epidemiologist, Professor Ibrahim Abubakar, as the new Chief Executive Officer of the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI) as a recognition of Nigeria’s growing influence in global health leadership.

Abubakar, a Professor of Infectious Disease Epidemiology at University College London (UCL), is expected to join CEPI in March 2027 before formally assuming office as Chief Executive Officer in April.

In a statement on Friday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu said Abubakar’s emergence reflected the excellence, expertise and commitment of Nigerian professionals making their mark on the international stage.

The President said the appointment would place the Nigerian scholar at the helm of a major global partnership dedicated to accelerating vaccine development and strengthening preparedness against epidemics and pandemics.

Abubakar brings more than three decades of experience spanning medicine, infectious disease epidemiology, public health research, policy and international health leadership to the position.

Tinubu noted his longstanding contributions to global health, including his service as Director of the UCL Institute for Global Health and Dean of the Faculty of Population Health Sciences, as well as his involvement in international efforts to strengthen pandemic preparedness and response.

He expressed confidence that Abubakar would bring his experience, vision and leadership to bear as CEPI implements its 2027–2031 strategy and pursues efforts to accelerate global responses to future pandemics.

The President also commended CEPI for its commitment to international collaboration, scientific innovation and equitable access to life-saving vaccines and other tools required to tackle emerging health threats.

Tinubu paid tribute to the outgoing CEO, Dr Richard Hatchett, for his leadership of the organisation since its establishment in 2017, while welcoming the board’s decision to ensure a smooth transition ahead of Abubakar’s assumption of office.

He wished the incoming CEO success and assured him of Nigeria’s continued support for international partnerships aimed at strengthening global health security, scientific cooperation and equitable access to vaccines.