News Investigators/ President Bola Tinubu has congratulated Muhammad Ali Pate, Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, and Anna Makanju, Vice President, Global Impact, OpenAI, on their inclusion on the Devex Power 50 List for 2026.
The commendation is contained in a statement issued by the President’s Spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, on Friday in Abuja.
The duo were selected alongside 48 others, including Ghana’s President John Mahama, for their role in shaping global development.
Tinubu commended Pate and Makanju for their contributions, describing the recognition as well-deserved.
“By their nomination, Prof. Pate and Makanju have made Nigeria proud,” the president said.
He said the honour was another testament to the talents and potentials in Nigeria and among Nigerians in the Diaspora.
The Devex Power 50 is an annual curated list of 50 influential people, organisations and initiatives shaping the future of global development.
Devex listed Prof. Pate as a leading voice advocating improved health care access in Nigeria, with emphasis on domestic sourcing of health products.
It said his advocacy also extends to reforming international global health infrastructure.
Devex described him as one of the most recognised health ministers on the African continent and beyond.
Makanju was listed for her role in model deployment, policy and governance at OpenAI.
She previously served as Special Adviser to former U.S. President, Joe Biden.
Devex said Makanju has emerged as a key figure influencing how next-generation AI systems will shape global development.
“She is leading OpenAI’s global outreach to governments, helping draft the first wave of AI guardrails,” Devex said.
It said she also advises leaders on balancing innovation with public safety.
Tinubu urged both Nigerians to continue striving for excellence and impacting development worldwide.
NAN