Ali Pate

Muhammad Ali Pate OON (born September 6, 1968) is a Nigerian physician and politician recognized for his extensive career in public health, global health governance, and government service. He has held significant roles in Nigeria and at international organizations, focusing on health system strengthening, infectious disease control, and improving primary healthcare access.Early Life and Education Muhammad Ali Pate was born in September 1968 in Misau, which is now part of Bauchi State, Nigeria, and was raised in the northern region. After completing his high school education, he attended Ahmadu Bello University in Kaduna State, where he earned his medical degree (MD). Following his medical studies, Pate worked in rural hospitals in The Gambia. He later moved to the United States to further his specialization, becoming a fellow in infectious diseases at the University of Rochester Medical Center. Pate holds multiple advanced degrees, reflecting his focus on the intersection of medicine and health system management. He earned a master’s degree in Health System Management from the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM) and an MBA with a concentration in Health Sector Management from Duke University. He is certified by the American Board in both Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases.Career Progression and Major Achievements Dr. Pate's career is marked by a blend of clinical practice, academic work, and high-level policy and executive roles. He began working with the World Bank Group in 2000, serving in various capacities across several regions. From November 2008 to July 2011, Pate served as the Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) of Nigeria. During this tenure, he was recognized for his efforts in shaping Nigeria’s healthcare system and expanding primary health coverage. In 2011, he transitioned into political office when he was appointed the Minister of State for Health of Nigeria. After his time in government, he returned to international roles, notably serving as the director of the Global Financing Facility (GFF) for women, children, and adolescents at the World Bank Group. In February 2023, he became the Chief Executive Officer of the Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunization (GAVI), a role from which he was nominated to serve in the Nigerian government. He currently serves as a Minister in the Nigerian government, representing Abuja, Nigeria.Honors and Recognition In October 2022, Pate was conferred the title Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) by the then-President Muhammadu Buhari, in recognition of his national contributions. He has received several national and international accolades for his work in the health sector, including being included in Time magazine's "100 Health 2025" list.