Dr. Adaeze Oreh, the Honourable Commissioner for Health in Rivers State, is a distinguished public health expert and policy strategist. With an impressive career spanning public health leadership, medical research, and policy advocacy, Dr. Oreh has been instrumental in reshaping healthcare delivery in Nigeria.
Her tenure in Rivers State has been marked by strategic reforms aimed at improving healthcare infrastructure, expanding medical services, and fostering partnerships for sustainable development.
Background and Education
Dr. Adaeze Oreh’s academic journey reflects her dedication to advancing healthcare standards and policy formulation. She holds multiple degrees and certifications from prestigious institutions worldwide:
- Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery (MBBS) – University of Nigeria, Nsukka.
- MSc in International Health Management – Imperial College London.
- MSc in Public Health – London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine.
- Doctoral Research (Ongoing) – University of Groningen, Netherlands.
Additionally, she has received executive education from globally recognized institutions, including:
- Harvard Kennedy School of Government
- University of Oxford
- Harvard Chan School of Public Health
- University of Bath
- University of Washington
Professional Career
Public Health Leadership
Before becoming the Commissioner for Health in Rivers State, Dr. Oreh held several key positions that significantly impacted healthcare policy and administration in Nigeria:
- Country Director of Planning, Research, and Statistics at the National Blood Service Commission.
- A leading advocate for universal health coverage, focusing on healthcare accessibility for underserved communities.
- Pioneer in community health advocacy and strengthening healthcare delivery systems in Nigeria.
Her extensive research and expertise have led to critical policy reforms, particularly in the areas of maternal health, infectious diseases, and public health infrastructure.
Key Accomplishments
Healthcare Reforms in Rivers State
As Commissioner for Health, Dr. Oreh has spearheaded several initiatives to improve healthcare infrastructure and service delivery:
- Repositioning Health Institutions: Reconstitution of governing boards for hospitals, including Rivers State University Teaching Hospital (RSUTH) and the Rivers State Hospitals Management Board.
- 7-Point #Health4AllRivers Strategy: A blueprint for achieving universal health coverage in Rivers State.
- Hospital Modernization: Commissioning of the Prof. Kelsey Harrison Hospital and the Dental Maxillofacial, ENT, and Ophthalmology Hospital in Port Harcourt.
- Upgrading Primary Healthcare: Renovation of 35 primary healthcare centers across Rivers State.
- Infrastructure Development: Establishment of a Drug Rehabilitation Centre, ICU expansion in RSUTH, and digitalization of healthcare services.
Legislative and Policy Impact
Dr. Oreh has played a key role in shaping health policy through strategic legislation and funding:
- National Blood Service Commission Act 2021: Spearheaded the passage of this law to improve blood transfusion services across Nigeria.
- Basic Healthcare Provision Fund (BHCPF): Advocated for the successful implementation of this fund, increasing access to healthcare for vulnerable populations.
- Rivers State Health Insurance Scheme (RIVCHPP): Initiated a contributory health protection programme to expand coverage for residents.
Economic and Social Impact
Dr. Oreh’s policies have had a far-reaching impact on the healthcare economy:
- Secured billions in healthcare funding to enhance services and insurance coverage.
- Advocated for equitable healthcare access to boost economic productivity and reduce disease burden.
- Integrated maternal and child healthcare services into primary care, ensuring better outcomes.
Public-Private Partnerships for Health
Dr. Oreh has fostered significant partnerships with international organizations and the private sector to strengthen healthcare delivery:
- UNICEF, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, and Aliko Dangote Foundation: Supported vaccination programs, family planning, and infrastructure development.
- MTN Nigeria Foundation: Upgraded primary healthcare centers across Rivers State.
- Shell Petroleum Development Company and NNPC Ltd JV: Renovated multiple cottage hospitals in rural communities.
Her leadership has facilitated donations of medical equipment, construction of solar-powered healthcare centers, and establishment of oxygen plants for critical care services.
Philanthropy and Social Impact
Beyond her governmental role, Dr. Oreh is deeply committed to humanitarian efforts:
- Founder & CEO, Kaibeya Care Foundation Africa
- Advisory Board Member, The Mansaray Foundation (Sierra Leone)
- Board Member, White Ribbon Alliance for Safe Motherhood Nigeria
- Zonal Coordinator, Rebirth Women’s Centre – Orphans & Widows Initiative
- Volunteer Counsellor, World Health Organization (WHO) – Infant and Young Child Feeding Practices
Her initiatives focus on improving maternal and child health, mental health awareness, and community-based healthcare interventions.
Professional Affiliations
Dr. Oreh is a respected member of numerous professional organizations, demonstrating her influence in the medical and policy-making communities:
- West African College of Physicians
- Royal Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene
- Aspen Institute’s New Voices Fellowship
- Kofi Annan Fellowship in Global Health Leadership
- Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Presidential Centre for Women and Development
Her recognition spans global conferences, leadership summits, and medical associations, highlighting her contributions to public health and policy.
Published Works and Research
Dr. Oreh has authored several academic publications and book chapters focusing on blood transfusion policies, healthcare access, and sickle cell disease management:
- Access to Blood and Blood Products for Sickle Cell Disease Warriors in Nigeria: Challenges and Opportunities – Routledge, 2024.
- Passion, People, and Transforming Pain into Purpose – Featured in Lessons Life Has Taught Me: Stories That Inspire Change.
Her research continues to inform healthcare policies, innovative solutions, and improved access to quality medical services.
Vision for Healthcare in Rivers State
Dr. Oreh’s leadership is driven by a clear vision for healthcare excellence and inclusivity:
- Honesty, Fairness, Empathy, Innovation, and Excellence as core principles.
- Universal Health Coverage through sustainable policies and funding.
- Leveraging technology and data-driven solutions for efficient healthcare delivery.
- Empowering women and children through specialized health programs.
Her long-term goal is to position Rivers State as a model for healthcare advancement in Nigeria.
