The Merck Foundation, in partnership with Nigeria’s First Lady Oluremi Tinubu and other African first ladies, has announced new support for girls’ education and healthcare in Nigeria.
The foundation said it would provide scholarships for doctors, expand training in key medical fields, and sponsor disadvantaged girls through school.
“Together, we will transform the future of patient care in Nigeria,” said Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation.
It explained that the initiative aims to strengthen healthcare systems, empower women, close gaps in specialized services, and fight infertility stigma.
Tinubu added, “I firmly believe in empowering girls through education, as it plays a crucial role in building stronger and healthier nations.”
The announcement came at the 7th Edition of the Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative (MFFLI) Summit in 2025, which gathered first ladies and health leaders from across Africa.
The foundation stated that it would achieve these commitments through capacity-building programs, the “Educating Linda Programme” that sponsors underprivileged girls until graduation, and scholarships for Nigerian doctors in areas such as fertility, oncology, cardiology, and women’s health.