Pakistani Senator, Nishtar Appointed GAVI CEO, Succeeds Prof. Pate

By Abujah Racheal 

In a significant development for the GAVI Vaccine Alliance, Sania Nishtar, a Pakistani senator and seasoned Global Health advocate, has been unveiled as the new executive director, succeeding Prof. Mohammad Pate.

The announcement was made on Thursday in Abuja through an official statement by GAVI.

Pate, who assumed the CEO position in February 2023, recently cited his decision to return to Nigeria and contribute to reshaping the country’s healthcare delivery system.

GAVI, respecting Pate’s choice, appointed David Marlow as the Interim CEO.

Nishtar, with 30 years of experience in public health and medicine, is set to officially take office on March 18.

Her diverse background includes serving as the Federal Minister and assistant to the Prime Minister for Social Protection and Poverty Alleviation in Pakistan from 2018 to 2022.

Her previous roles also extended to the board of directors and advisory committees at GAVI.

The statement emphasised the significance of Nishtar’s appointment for GAVI’s mission, stating, “Her extensive experience in public health and medicine makes her well-suited for the role, and her leadership will be instrumental in advancing GAVI’s objectives.”

Prof. Pate, extending congratulations on his official handle, expressed optimism about the future collaboration with Nishtar and the GAVI board.

He outlined Nigeria’s aspirations, including expanding routine immunisation, reducing zero doses, accelerating newer vaccines, and strengthening Primary Health Care in the country.

GAVI, established 23 years ago, plays a crucial role in global health, and its board includes prominent organisations such as the WHO, UNICEF, the World Bank, and philanthropic entities like the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.

Notably, during the COVID-19 pandemic, GAVI’s COVAX programme distributed two billion doses, estimated to have prevented 2.7 million deaths worldwide. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Joseph Edeh