According to The Guardian, Nigerian epidemiologist and internationally recognized public health researcher Professor Ibrahim Abubakar has been appointed as the incoming Chief Executive Officer of the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI). The global coalition plays a central role in financing and developing vaccines against emerging infectious disease threats worldwide.
Professor Abubakar, who currently serves as Professor of Infectious Disease Epidemiology and Dean of the Faculty of Population Health Sciences at University College London (UCL), brings over three decades of international experience in public health, policy, and medical research to the global health organization. He will formally assume the leadership role in early 2027.
The appointment has been praised by global health bodies and national authorities as a testament to the high caliber of Nigerian medical professionals operating on the global stage. In his new role, Abubakar will oversee international efforts to shorten vaccine development timelines and ensure equitable access to medical counter-measures during future epidemics.
State House Press Center confirmed the appointment, stating that “President Bola Tinubu congratulated Professor Abubakar, commending his dedication to global health security and vaccine development.” Additionally, Vanguard noted that “health stakeholders across Africa have lauded the choice of a prominent African scientist to lead global pandemic preparedness efforts.”
Echotitbits take:
Professor Abubakar’s appointment to lead CEPI is a major milestone for African representation in global health governance. His leadership comes at a time when equitable access to vaccines and localized pharmaceutical manufacturing are critical priorities for developing nations across the Global South.
Source: Punch Newspaper – https://punchng.com/meet-nigerian-professor-ibrahim-abubakar-appointed-cepi-ceo/, and August 15, 2026
Photo credit: CEPI
