Dr. Ifedayo Adetifa, the former Director-General of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), has been appointed as the Chief Transformation Officer and Chief Executive Officer of FIND, a global non-profit organization focused on enhancing diagnostic access and innovation.
FIND announced the appointment on its website, highlighting Adetifa's extensive experience in global health and infectious disease control. As NCDC DG from September 6, 2021, to February 2024, Adetifa played a crucial role in Nigeria’s COVID-19 response, securing substantial funding and managing large-scale health initiatives.
In his new role, Adetifa will lead FIND in its mission to drive diagnostic innovation and expand access to testing worldwide. Dr. Ayoade Alakija, Chair of the FIND Board, praised the appointment, noting its significance as Adetifa becomes the first African CEO from the Global South for the organization. Alakija emphasized the importance of diverse global health leadership in advancing health equity.
Adetifa, a pediatrician and epidemiologist with a robust academic background, including an MSc from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine and a Ph.D. from the University of Amsterdam, expressed enthusiasm for his new role. He aims to guide FIND through its transformative journey, ensuring that advancements in diagnostics reach underserved populations globally.
