The immediate past Commissioner for Health in Rivers State, Dr. Adaeze Chidinma Oreh, has expressed gratitude to Governor Siminalayi Fubara for the opportunity to serve, following the dissolution of the State Executive Council.
In a press statement issued on Thursday, Dr. Oreh described her tenure as Commissioner as “one of the greatest honours” of her life, noting that it afforded her the privilege of contributing to the transformation of the state’s health sector under Governor Fubara’s leadership.
Governor Fubara had earlier announced the dissolution of the State Executive Council, directing commissioners and other political appointees to hand over to permanent secretaries.
Reacting to the development, Dr. Oreh thanked the governor for the trust and confidence reposed in her, stating that her service was driven by a shared vision of building a healthier and more equitable Rivers State.
“The true joy of this tenure lay in the remarkable opportunity it presented, to do meaningful, life-changing work for the people of Rivers State,” she said.
She highlighted key strides recorded during her time in office, including strengthening primary healthcare foundations, improving maternal and child health outcomes, expanding access to quality health services, promoting accountability, and forging partnerships that positioned Rivers State prominently in national and global health discussions.
Dr. Oreh attributed the achievements to the collective efforts of health workers, development partners, and community stakeholders across the state.
She specifically commended Permanent Secretaries, Chief Executives, Directors, Medical Officers of Health, and frontline health professionals for their dedication and commitment to service delivery.
“As I step aside in line with the Governor’s directive, I do so with immense pride in the progress we achieved together and full confidence in the talented professionals who will carry this vital work forward,” she stated.
Reaffirming her commitment to public service, Dr. Oreh pledged to continue advocating stronger health systems, equitable access to care, innovative policies, and greater community engagement in health development initiatives within and beyond Rivers State.
She also encouraged healthcare workers to remain steadfast in their sacrifice, professionalism, and compassion, describing them as “the heartbeat” of the state’s health system.
Dr. Oreh thanked residents of the state’s riverine and upland communities for their trust and support throughout her tenure, saying the work of advancing healthcare in Rivers State would continue.
She signed off the statement as “#ThePeoplesCommissioner,” praying for sustained growth and development for the state.
