Betta Edu: Personality profile of President Bola Tinubu's youngest minister

In the dynamic world of politics, where rhetoric and promises often overshadow action, there are rare figures who redefine the very essence of public service.

One such transformative leader is Betta Edu, whose journey into the realm of politics has been marked by a commitment to integrity, inclusivity, and a steadfast dedication to improving the lives of her constituents.

As a politician, Betta Edu's unique approach to governance and her unyielding pursuit of progress have earned her a reputation as a beacon of hope and a catalyst for positive change.

She is currently the National Women leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and has become the youngest politician to make it into president Bola Ahmed Tinubu's ministerial list which was sent to Senate president Godswill Akpabio on July 27, 2023.

Not only a politician

Betta Edu's journey to becoming a public health icon has been one of determination, passion, and dedication. Her early experiences as a medical professional exposed her to the stark realities of inadequate healthcare and limited resources, particularly in underserved regions. These challenges sparked a desire within her to make a lasting difference and advocate for health equity.

Edu's pursuit of excellence led her to pursue advanced studies in public health administration and management. Armed with new knowledge and insight, she returned to Nigeria to actively engage in public health initiatives that would transcend borders and ideologies. Her notable contributions in controlling infectious diseases have significantly impacted global health.

Her educational background

Betta attended the Federal Government Girls College, Calabar in 2001 for her secondary education and obtained her West African Examination Council (WAEC) certificate.

In 2009, she completed her first degree in medicine and surgery (MBBCh) from the University of Calabar, Cross River State.

She has also bagged a Post Graduate Diploma in Public Health for Developing Countries from London School Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, UK, Master of Science Public Health in Developing Countries from London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, UK, and Doctor of Public Health from Texila American University.

Betta's family background

Betta was born in Lagos, but spent her early years in London and relocated to Cross River state with her siblings and parents when she was eight years old.

Talking about her life in London, Betta Edu said: "I grew up in an efficient system in London. There was free basic education available and we had milk delivered to our doorstep to help keep us healthy. We had a functional health system we could rely on. The transport system was also reliable. The only difficult thing as a child was the cold weather, which could be very uncomfortable sometimes."

Today, Betta is married with two children.

BB/NBA