Deadline: 31-Dec-2025
The WomenLift Health–WILAN Nigeria Leadership Journey is a year-long leadership development programme for mid-career Nigerian women in public health, running from May 2026 to April 2027. It combines in-person residencies, mentorship, coaching, and a self-directed Health Leadership Project to strengthen women’s leadership, advance gender-responsive health systems, and drive sustainable health impact in Nigeria.
The Nigeria Leadership Journey is a flagship leadership development programme launched by WomenLift Health in partnership with the Women in Leadership Advancement Network (WILAN). It is designed to support mid-career women in health to explore authentic leadership, strengthen their influence, and drive systemic improvements in public and global health.
Programme Purpose and Vision
The programme aims to strengthen health outcomes in Nigeria by equipping women leaders with the skills, confidence, and systems-thinking approach needed to influence policy, institutions, and practice. It prioritises gender-responsive leadership that centres women and girls, promotes institutional change, and builds resilient, integrated health systems.
Key Focus Areas
The Nigeria Leadership Journey focuses on:
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Gender-responsive health policies and systems
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Leadership grounded in reflection, vulnerability, and authenticity
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Systems-based approaches to public health challenges
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Sustainable use of influence, power, and resources
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Institutional change and pathways to women’s health leadership
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Strengthening outcomes for women and girls
Who the Programme Is For
Who Is Eligible?
Applicants must meet all of the following criteria:
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Nigerian women
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10–20 years of professional experience in public health or related fields
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Mid- to senior-career professionals
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Currently living and working in Nigeria
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Able to participate actively in West Africa Standard Time (WAT)
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Strong English communication skills
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Able to attend in-person residencies and virtual sessions
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Provide a letter of recommendation from a supervisor or senior leader
Programme Structure and Components
Duration and Timeline
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Programme period: May 2026 – April 2027
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In-person residencies:
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Leadership Immersion: July 2026
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Leadership Lift-Off: April 2027
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Core Learning Elements
Participants engage in a blended leadership journey that includes:
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Two in-person experiential residencies
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Mandatory virtual learning touchpoints
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One-on-one and group mentorship
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Personalized leadership coaching
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Peer learning and cohort-based reflection
The Health Leadership Project
A defining feature of the Journey is the Health Leadership Project, a self-directed initiative designed by each participant to create tangible health impact.
Participants will:
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Identify a priority public health challenge
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Develop a clear Theory of Change
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Conduct stakeholder and systems analysis
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Design practical implementation strategies
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Present the project at the Leadership Lift-Off event
The project continues beyond the programme, serving as a long-term leadership and impact milestone.
Mentorship and Coaching
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Mentorship: Guidance from senior leaders across the health sector
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Coaching: Individualised support to build self-awareness, refine leadership competencies, and navigate professional challenges
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Peer Network: A diverse cohort across disciplines and sectors fostering belonging and shared growth
Why This Programme Matters
Why It Matters
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Addresses gender gaps in health leadership in Nigeria
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Strengthens leadership capacity for systemic health change
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Builds a pipeline of women leaders influencing policy and institutions
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Centres women and girls in health outcomes
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Creates a lifelong network of women leaders in health
Fellowship and Alumni Network
Upon completion, participants become WomenLift Health Global Fellows, joining a lifelong international network committed to advancing women’s leadership in health. Optional JourneyPLUS sessions provide continued community building and expert engagement beyond the core curriculum.
How to Apply
Application Requirements
Applicants must submit:
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Completed online application form
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Letter of recommendation from a supervisor or senior leader
Key Dates
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Application deadline: 31 December 2025
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Notification of selection: February 2026
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Onboarding begins: March 2026
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Programme runs: May 2026 – April 2027
Common Application Tips
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Clearly articulate your leadership journey and growth goals
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Demonstrate commitment to improving health outcomes through a systems lens
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Highlight experience in public health, policy, or health systems
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Ensure your recommender can speak to your leadership potential and impact
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is the programme designed for?
Mid-career Nigerian women with 10–20 years of experience in public health or related fields.
Is the programme full-time?
No, it is designed to run alongside professional roles, with mandatory residencies and scheduled virtual sessions.
Are the in-person residencies mandatory?
Yes, both in-person residencies are required for full participation.
What is the Health Leadership Project?
A self-designed initiative that applies leadership learning to create real-world health impact.
What happens after completing the programme?
Participants become Global Fellows and join a lifelong leadership and peer support network.
Is mentorship provided?
Yes, participants receive mentorship from senior health leaders and personalised coaching.
What language is the programme conducted in?
The programme is conducted in English, and strong English communication skills are required.
Conclusion
The WomenLift Health–WILAN Nigeria Leadership Journey offers a transformative opportunity for Nigerian women in health to deepen their leadership, drive systemic change, and improve health outcomes for women, girls, and communities. Through immersive learning, mentorship, and a powerful peer network, the programme equips participants to lead with purpose, influence, and lasting impact.
For more information, visit WomenLift Health.