UNILORIN Alumnus Dr. Ifedayo Adetifa Appointed CEO of Global Non-Profit FIND
Dr. Ifedayo Adetifa, former NCDC Director-General and UNILORIN alumnus, has been appointed CEO of the global health organization FIND.
Mary Nwaeze 
Dr. Ifedayo Morayo Adetifa, an esteemed alumnus of the University of Ilorin, has been appointed Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Chief Transformation Officer of FIND, a global non-profit organization dedicated to advancing diagnostic technology and health systems.
Dr. Adetifa, formerly the Director-General of Nigeria Centre for Disease Control & Prevention (NCDC), will lead FIND during a transformative phase for the organization. The announcement marks a significant milestone as Dr. Adetifa becomes the first African CEO from the Global South at FIND.
In a statement, Dr. Ayoade Alakija, Chair of the FIND Board, emphasized the importance of this appointment. “We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Adetifa to FIND. His leadership will be pivotal as we embark on a new transformative journey. His appointment not only highlights FIND's commitment to diversity but also reflects our mission to advance health for all,” said Alakija.
Dr. Adetifa, a distinguished paediatrician and infectious disease epidemiologist, is renowned for his instrumental role in Nigeria’s COVID-19 response. His leadership at NCDC saw significant advancements in disease prevention and control, including securing substantial funding and managing large-scale health initiatives.
“I am honoured to assume this new role at FIND,” Dr. Adetifa tweeted. “My commitment is to drive innovation, expand access to diagnostics, and ensure that critical health resources reach those in greatest need.”
With a rich background in global health, Dr. Adetifa’s expertise spans Lassa fever, vaccines, respiratory syncytial virus, malaria, tuberculosis, and health systems. He is currently a member of the Scientific Advisory Committee for the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI).
Dr. Adetifa earned his medical degree from the University of Ilorin, completed his paediatric residency at Lagos University Teaching Hospital, and holds a Fellowship from the West Africa College of Physicians. He furthered his studies with an M.Sc. from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine and a Ph.D. from the University of Amsterdam.
FIND, founded in Geneva in 2003, is a WHO Collaborating Centre that connects stakeholders to promote diagnostic innovation and strengthen health systems globally. Under Dr. Adetifa’s leadership, FIND is poised to enhance its mission of advancing diagnostic technology and improving health outcomes worldwide.
