By Iyemah David
FIND, the global alliance dedicated to transforming diagnostic testing, has announced the appointment of Dr Ifedayo Adetifa, former Director-General, Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), as its new Chief Transformation Officer.
Find announced in a statement on Thursday that Adetifa will also serve as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), adding that the appointment marks a significant milestone as he becomes the first African CEO from the Global South to lead the organisation.
The group stated that the ex-NCDC boss, a distinguished paediatrician and infectious disease epidemiologist, brings a wealth of experience to FIND.
It added that while steering the affairs of the centre, Adetifa played critical role in advancing Nigeria’s COVID-19 response.
Expressing enthusiasm for the new role, Adetifa said he was thrilled to join FIND at such a crucial time for global health and diagnostics.
He said “I look forward to leading FIND’s team and working with our global partners to drive diagnostic innovation and ensure advancements reach those most in need.”
He said that as he begins the tenure, he is set to steer FIND through a new era of transformation, focusing on innovation and expanding global access to diagnostic testing.
Dr Ayoade Alakija, the Chair of the FIND Board, highlighted the importance of the appointment, saying “as FIND embarks on transformative journey, we are excited to welcome Dr Adetifa as CEO.
“His appointment is a historic first for FIND, reflecting our commitment to diversity and global health leadership. Rebalancing will power to advance health for all, and we are proud to have Dr Adetifa lead us in this mission.”
NAN reports that Adetifa’s background include work on diseases such as Lassa fever, malaria, tuberculosis and respiratory syncytial virus at national, regional, and international levels.
He also served on the Scientific Advisory Committee for the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI).
He held undergraduate medical qualifications from University of Ilorin, Nigeria, and completed his paediatric residency at Lagos University Teaching Hospital.
He earned an MSc from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM) and a PhD in Epidemiology from University of Amsterdam.
Before his role at NCDC, he was an Associate Professor of Infectious Diseases, Epidemiology at LSHTM.
About FIND
FIND accelerates equitable access to reliable diagnosis around the world. They are working to close critical testing gaps that leave people at risk from preventable and treatable illnesses, enable effective disease surveillance, and build sustainable, resilient health systems. In partnership with countries, WHO and other global health agencies, the agency is driving progress towards global health security and universal health coverage. FIND is a WHO Collaborating Centre for Laboratory Strengthening and Diagnostic Technology Evaluation.
