On 19 November 2010, following consultations with the Executive Board of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon announced the appointment of Babatunde Osotimehin (Nigeria) as the agency’s new Executive Director replacing Thoraya Obaid.
The Secretary-General expressed his gratitude for the outgoing Executive Director’s services to the Organization and her commitment in championing the health and empowerment of women and young people He was particularly appreciative of Ms. Obaid’s exemplary leadership in the implementation of UNFPA’s mandate over the two terms she has led the agency.
Dr. Osotimehin brings a wealth of experience and passion to UNFPA, coupled with extensive knowledge and understanding of the global and national frameworks and processes that are critical to the Fund’s work. He is expected to bring significant experience, strong leadership and proven managerial skills to further reproductive health, women’s empowerment, population and development strategies.
Having previously served as Nigeria’s Minister for Health, Dr. Osotimehin was also Director General of the National Agency of Nigeria for the Control of HIV and AIDS, which coordinates all HIV/AIDS activities in the country.
Born in 1949, he earned a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) from the University of Ibadan in Nigeria, and a doctorate in medicine from the University of Birmingham in the United Kingdom.
Dr. Osotimehin is married and has five children.