President Bola Tinubu has congratulated two prominent Nigerians, Prof. Muhammed Ali Pate, Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, and Anna Adeola Makanju, Vice President for Global Impact at OpenAI, on their inclusion in the 2026 Devex Power 50 list.
The President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, announced the development in a statement released on Friday.
Pate and Makanju were named among 50 global figures, organisations, and initiatives recognised for their influence in shaping the future of international development.
The list also features notable personalities, including Ghana’s President John Mahama.
Commending the duo, President Tinubu described their recognition as a source of national pride and a reflection of the country’s vast human capital at home and abroad.
He said, “The inclusion of Prof. Pate and Ms. Makanju on the Devex Power 50 list is a proud moment for Nigeria. It highlights the depth of talent within our nation and among Nigerians in the diaspora who continue to make meaningful contributions to global progress.”
According to the statement, the annual Devex Power 50 list spotlights individuals and institutions playing critical roles in shaping the direction of global development.
Pate, a former Global Director for Health, Nutrition, and Population at the World Bank, was recognised for his advocacy to improve access to healthcare in Nigeria, with a strong focus on strengthening domestic production of medical products.
The list also acknowledged his broader efforts to reform international health systems, describing him as a leading voice on the continent and a prominent figure in global health discussions.
Makanju, who oversees global outreach, policy, and governance at OpenAI, was recognised for her influence at the intersection of artificial intelligence and global development. She previously served as a Special Adviser to former United States President, Joe Biden.
Devex noted that she is playing a central role in shaping how next-generation AI systems will affect development worldwide, particularly through her work with governments on AI policies and safety frameworks.
President Tinubu urged both nominees to sustain their commitment to excellence and continue making impactful contributions in their respective fields.
He added, “I encourage them to remain steadfast in their pursuits and to keep raising the bar, as their work continues to advance development efforts across the world.”
