Tinubu Hails Abubakar’s Appointment As CEPI Chief Executive

President Bola Tinubu has congratulated Prof Ibrahim Abubakar as the new chief executive officer of the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI).

Abubakar is a Nigerian epidemiologist, global health expert and Professor of Infectious Disease Epidemiology at University College London (UCL).

In a statement by his spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu commended the appointment, which will enable him to lead the global partnership dedicated to developing vaccines and strengthening preparedness against epidemics and pandemics.

Prof Abubakar, who will join CEPI in March 2027 and assume the role of Chief Executive Officer in April 2027, brings more than three decades of experience spanning medicine, infectious disease epidemiology, public health research, policy and international health leadership.

President Tinubu noted with pride Prof Abubakar’s longstanding contributions to global health, including his service as Director of the UCL Institute for Global Health, Dean of the Faculty of Population Health Sciences, and his involvement in international efforts to strengthen pandemic preparedness and response.
The President believed Prof. Abubakar’s appointment is a significant recognition of Nigeria’s growing contribution to global health leadership and a testament to the excellence, expertise and commitment of Nigerian professionals working on the international stage.

President Tinubu commended CEPI for its commitment to international collaboration, scientific innovation and equitable access to life-saving vaccines and other tools needed to confront emerging health threats.

He also appreciated the outgoing CEO, Dr Richard Hatchett, for his leadership of CEPI since its establishment in 2017, and welcomed the Board’s decision to ensure a carefully managed transition before Prof. Abubakar assumed office.

The President expressed confidence that Prof. Abubakar will bring exceptional expertise, vision, and leadership to CEPI as it implements its 2027–2031 strategy and advances the global ambition of responding rapidly to future pandemics.

President Tinubu wished Prof Abubakar great success in his new responsibility and assured him of Nigeria’s continued support for international partnerships that promote global health security, scientific cooperation and equitable access to vaccines.