Two young Nigerian ladies beaming the light of impact in governance. Birthed at different times in different geographical topography, Dr. Jamila Muhammed Dahiru and Dr. Adaeze Oreh present to us dossiers of expertise that should be keenly watched and trailed, their trajectories; veritable wall maps for present and future references. A study of their yesterdays presents luring insights to how they have come this nigh. Both are commissioners, both are change makers, both are torchbearers to young girls and women in Nigeria. While Dr. Adaeze Oreh holds the ace as the Commissioner of Health in Rivers State, Jamila Muhammed Dahiru was Education Commissioner in Bauchi State and now re-nominated again for most likely the same portfolio.
The duo from opposite geography of Nigeria are stoic advocates for women and girls, they have spent years providing veritable models for the rights and health of the girl child. While Dr Oreh echoed far into health policies, Jamila shouts far in education and communication policies. They have been consistent voices for the right policies , tools, and environment should be for women and girls. The duo of Governors Muhammed Bala and Siminalayi Fubara wasted no time in poaching these two brains into their governments, a standing salute for these leaders in this regard.
Meet Jamila Dahiru and Dr. Adaeze Oreh, two young Nigerian women who are shining beacons of impact in the field of governance. Despite being born in different times and hailing from diverse geographical regions, their journeys intersect with a common goal – to bring about positive change and progress in their respective spheres. With expertise and dedication that demand attention, they serve as guiding stars for present and future generations alike.
Jamila Dahiru, the former Education Commissioner in Bauchi State and now re-nominated for the same portfolio, possesses an unyielding commitment to education and communication policies. Throughout her career, she has championed the cause of empowering young girls and women through improved educational opportunities and access to information. Her dedication to shaping a better future for Nigerian girls has been unwavering, making her a true torchbearer for the cause.
On the other hand, Dr. Adaeze Oreh is the Commissioner of Health in Rivers State, where she will be instrumental in shaping health policies and initiatives. Her focus extends beyond policies, as she has been a strong advocate for the rights and well-being of women and girls. Through her tireless efforts, she has provided a shining example of leadership and service, fostering an environment where the health and rights of women are given the attention they deserve.
Both Jamila and Dr. Adaeze are esteemed change-makers, using their positions in governance to address the challenges faced by women and girls in Nigeria. Their exemplary work and dedication have inspired countless individuals, setting a precedent for others to follow. They have spent years providing tangible and inspiring models for the rights and health of the girl child, effectively breaking down barriers and advancing gender equality.
It is commendable that the Governors of their respective states, Muhammed Bala and Fubara, recognized the immense potential of these two exceptional women and swiftly welcomed them into their governments. This decision showcases the leaders‘ commitment to empowering women and their acknowledgment of the invaluable contributions that women can make in shaping a better society.
With a demonstrated history of working in the education industry, Dr. Jamila has ascended to the prestigious position of Commissioner at the Bauchi State Ministry of Education. Her impact as a lecturer at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria has been instrumental in shaping the minds of future scholars. Not confined to the academic realm, Jamila’s expertise also dominates the profiles of renowned Development Partners and International Organizations, including USAID, FCDO, UNDP, Open Contracting Society, and Reboot, among others. Her skills in research, policy development, and analysis, coupled with her broad knowledge in development studies, have made her an invaluable asset to these organizations. Beyond her impressive professional endeavors, Dr. Jamila is an advocate for social entrepreneurship. Her passion lies in creating awareness about development and good governance. Additionally, she is regarded as a community builder working with grassroots community structures driving ownership of community projects for sustainable development. She has worn herself a Fellowship of Leadership, Strategy and Development from the prestigious African Centre for Leadership Strategy and Development (Centre LCD).
Adaeze, as Health Commissioner is entrusted with the responsibility of driving the healthcare policy for the Government of Rivers State. With a population of over 8 million people, making up 4% of Nigeria‘s total population, Rivers State is the sixth most populous state in the country. Adaeze‘s mandate involves overseeing a complex network of primary, secondary, and tertiary health facilities, facing the challenge of improving health indices in the region.Adaeze‘s dedication to her role is evident in her commitment to addressing pressing health challenges. She tackles issues such as low life expectancy rates, general and under-five mortality rates, and one of the highest rates of maternal mortality nationwide. Beyond her role as Commissioner, Adaeze is a Consultant Family Physician, a Public Policy Specialist, and a dedicated advocate for Rural and Global Health & Development. With a wealth of experience spanning over two decades, she has navigated the complexities of health management in both public and private healthcare organizations in Nigeria. Her expertise and influence in the healthcare sector have garnered recognition, and she proudly holds the title of a 2023 Kofi Annan Global Health Leadership Fellow.
As the trajectory of Dr Jamila Dahiru and Dr. Adaeze Oreh continues to evolve, they offer more than just success stories; they present living proof that women can be powerful agents of change in governance. Their dedication, resilience, and unwavering commitment to women‘s rights and health policies make them stalwart advocates who continue to inspire generations to come. Their stories stand as a testament to the potential that lies within young Nigerian women, fueling hope for a brighter and more equitable future.
