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

In a statement released on Monday and obtained by Politics Nigeria, the agency explained that Osinbajo’s appointment comes at a critical stage as it pushes forward the Africa Health Security and Sovereignty (AHSS) agenda.

The initiative focuses on amplifying Africa’s influence in global health matters, boosting domestic funding, fast-tracking local production of medical supplies, and strengthening health systems to better prepare for and respond to pandemics.

Kaseya noted that the former vice-president brings a wealth of expertise to the position.

“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 will provide guidance on Africa’s role in reshaping global health systems, sustainable healthcare financing, local production of medical goods, strategic collaborations, and policy direction for both Africa CDC and the African Union.

Osinbajo served as Nigeria’s vice-president from 2015 to 2023. Earlier in his career, he was attorney-general and commissioner for justice in Lagos State from 1999 to 2007.

While in office, he chaired Nigeria’s Economic Sustainability Committee, spearheaded reforms to improve the ease of doing business through the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council, and contributed significantly to the implementation of the country’s social investment programmes.