On Monday, President Bola Tinubu extended warm congratulations to Dr. Awele Elumelu, Chairperson of Avon Healthcare Limited, as she marked her 55th birthday. In a statement released by Bayo Onanuga, the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Tinubu joined family, friends, and well-wishers in celebrating a woman he described as “a distinguished physician, devoted mother and wife, philanthropist, and entrepreneur.”
The President highlighted Dr. Elumelu’s significant contributions to Nigeria’s healthcare sector and her unwavering commitment to national development. “The President commends Dr Elumelu for her outstanding achievements and numerous recognitions, highlighting her lifelong commitment to saving lives and empowering women and children,” the statement read.
Dr. Elumelu’s leadership roles at Avon Healthcare Limited and as Founder and CEO of Avon Medical Practice have been pivotal in expanding access to quality healthcare services across Nigeria and the wider African continent, with a special focus on underserved populations. Her dedication to improving healthcare infrastructure and delivery has earned her widespread respect.
President Tinubu also recalled her instrumental role in public health as a Private Sector Champion for Immunisation in Africa with Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, in 2018. Through this position, she helped facilitate immunisation efforts that reached over 10 million previously unimmunised children across Africa, underscoring her global impact on public health.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Tinubu noted Dr. Elumelu’s active participation in marathons both locally and internationally, which has inspired many Nigerians to adopt healthier lifestyles through physical fitness and proper nutrition.
Additionally, her philanthropic leadership as a Director on the Board of Heirs Holdings and Trustee of The Tony Elumelu Foundation was acknowledged. In these capacities, Dr. Elumelu has empowered numerous Nigerians by providing entrepreneurial skills and opportunities, contributing to economic growth and social development.
Concluding his message, President Tinubu prayed for Dr. Elumelu’s continued good health, abundant blessings, and success in her ongoing service to humanity.