President Bola Tinubu has congratulated two distinguished Nigerians. Prof. Muhammed Ali Pate and Anna Makanju have made the Devex Power 50 List for 2026. This marks a major moment for Nigerian leadership. Nigeria is now a hub for health reform and tech governance.
The list identifies the fifty most influential global leaders. These people and groups shape global development. President Tinubu released a statement on Friday, February 6, 2026. He noted that their success proves the talent in Nigeria and its diaspora. Such wins help solve the world’s hardest problems.
The Devex Power 50: A Global Benchmark
The Devex Power 50 selects leaders who reshape international policy. This year, the competition was very high. Priorities have shifted toward health security and digital ethics.
Pate and Makanju joined 48 other global figures. This group includes Ghana’s President John Mahama. They were picked for their roles in health and technology. These sectors drive modern progress.
“Pate and Makanju have made Nigeria proud,” President Tinubu stated. “This honor shows the potential within our nation.”
Prof. Muhammed Ali Pate: Reforming Global Health
Prof. Pate is Nigeria’s Minister of Health and Social Welfare. He is a top advocate for health equity. He previously served as a Global Director at the World Bank. This gave him a unique view of Nigeria’s health hurdles.
Strategic Focus Areas
Prof. Pate focuses on two pillars for the African health sector:
- Domestic Sourcing: He wants to stop relying on global supply chains. He pushes for local medical products. This ensures Nigeria can meet its needs during crises.
- Infrastructural Reform: Pate wants to change how global systems help Africa. He prefers “partnership” models over “aid-dependency.”
Pate is a famous voice across the African continent. Devex noted his work makes global health more inclusive for everyone.
Anna Makanju: Defining the Ethics of AI
Anna Makanju manages the digital future. She is the Vice President of Global Impact at OpenAI. She is a key figure in the use of Artificial Intelligence.
Before OpenAI, she advised U.S. President Joe Biden. This high-level experience helps her navigate AI development. Her skills help build policy for a new tech era.
The Digital Frontier and AI Guardrails
In 2026, AI’s influence is clear. Makanju ensures this influence stays positive. Her current work includes:
- Establishing AI Guardrails: She talks to many governments. Her goal is to draft safe AI rules. This protects public security while allowing innovation.
- Balancing Innovation and Safety: Makanju advises world leaders on AI. They use it for farming or mapping diseases. She ensures they maintain high ethical standards.
Makanju has a huge impact on developing nations. Her work helps close the “digital divide” as tech grows faster.
Nigeria’s Influence on the 21st Century
The success of Pate and Makanju is a big win. It shows Nigeria’s strategic path. The government now promotes Nigerian experts in modern sectors.
Health and AI are the most disruptive forces today. Nigerians now lead in these sectors. This gives the country “soft power.” Nigeria now has a seat at the table where global rules are made.
The Role of the Diaspora
President Tinubu highlighted the talents of the Nigerian Diaspora. Anna Makanju’s career is a prime example. She shows the “brain gain” Nigeria can use. The government wants to strengthen ties with successful citizens abroad.
Conclusion: A Call for Continued Impact
President Tinubu urged both leaders to keep working hard. He said their work is not finished. The world expects more excellence from them.
The Devex Power 50 list is a major milestone. Yet, health and AI hurdles remain. These leaders carry the hopes of a nation. Their success proves that Nigerian talent can change the world.
