As the 78th World Health Assembly (WHA78) continues in Geneva, Nigeria’s Dr. Adaeze Oreh, Rivers State Commissioner for Health delivered a powerful message that health equity must no longer be seen as an option, but as a global obligation.
Speaking on behalf of Nigeria’s delegation, Dr. Oreh emphasized that building stronger and fairer health systems is the only way forward. “Health equity is not a choice — it’s a necessity,” she declared, calling on world leaders to ensure that no country or community is left behind in the global pursuit of healthcare access.
While much attention has gone to the formal adoption of the Pandemic Accord, Dr. Oreh’s remarks steered the focus toward the practical realities of countries like Nigeria. “We didn’t come to Geneva empty-handed,” she said, pointing to Nigeria’s long-standing experiences managing outbreaks like Ebola, Lassa fever, and COVID-19.
She noted that Nigeria has valuable lessons and solutions to offer — from results-based financing for primary health care to community-level reforms that have made a real difference.
“The Assembly’s resolutions must speak to the lived experiences of low and middle-income countries,” she added, “because those closest to the challenges often have the clearest solutions.”
In her speech, Dr. Oreh also voiced strong support for gender equity in health leadership. Referring to the Resist and Rise for Women in Global Health campaign, she stressed that women, especially those working at the grassroots level, must be part of every health decision-making process.
“When women lead, care becomes more inclusive and trusted,” she said. “Nigerian women on the frontlines have earned their place at every table.”
Nigeria’s delegation, made up of policy experts, government officials, and technical advisers, is actively engaging in key discussions at the Assembly — pushing for flexible funding, stronger emergency response systems, and fair access to vaccines and other medical tools.
Dr. Oreh’s closing remarks captured both urgency and hope: “The WHA78 is not just a meeting; it’s a call to action. If we are truly united, we can turn words into action and make global health work for everyone.”
The WHA78 runs from May 19 to 27, 2025, bringing together global health leaders to shape the future of healthcare.
