The Africa Center of Excellence for Population Health and Policy (ACEPHAP) has been awarded the prestigious Gates Foundation Foot Soldier Excellence Award 2025 for its outstanding field leadership and implementation of Maternal, Newborn, Child, Nutrition and Health (MNCNH) innovations under the AIM MNCNH Programme. The recognition was announced during the Gates Foundation NCO Policy Advocacy and Communication (PAC) Partners Community of Practice End-of-Year Convening, where ACEPHAP, represented by Dr. Aminu Wakili, highlighted key advocacy achievements, challenges, and priorities for 2026. Presented by the Deputy Director of the Gates Foundation Nigeria Country Office, the award celebrates ACEPHAP’s exceptional dedication, strong field performance, and consistent impact, with the center also earning a nomination for the Most Energetic Partner Award.

The Bloomberg-funded Embrace Project, led by the ACEPHAP–TAConnect consortium, held its inception meeting in Borno State to introduce the initiative and align major stakeholders. The project aims to strengthen safe motherhood and newborn care. The meeting gathered key officials from ACEPHAP, the Borno State Ministry of Health, traditional institutions, and development partners such as WHO, UNICEF, CHAI, and Lafiya, all demonstrating strong multisectoral support. Stakeholders emphasized evidence-based strategies, coordinated action, and community engagement to improve maternal and newborn health services. With shared commitment and collaborative momentum, the project is set to drive long-term improvements in maternal and child health outcomes across the state.

The Africa Centre for Population Health and Policy (ACEPHAP) today participated in the inception meeting of the Bloomberg Project held in collaboration with the Gombe State Ministry of Health. The high level gathering marked the official launch of the initiative aimed at strengthening health systems and improving public health outcomes across the state. Stakeholders emphasized the importance of coordinated action and evidence driven interventions as the project begins implementation.