Rivers State Ministry of Health

MENTAL AWARENESS MONTH 2025

This October, we join the global community in commemorating Mental Awareness Month, emphasizing the importance of mental health care and support. The 2025 theme, "Access to Services: Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies," highlights the critical need for mental health services in times of crisis.

As we navigate conflicts, displacement, and climate disasters, mental health care is not a luxury, but a fundamental human right. We urge all Rivers State residents to prioritize mental health. Let's work together to reduce stigma, promote mental health awareness, and ensure accessible care for all.

WORLD STROKE DAY

Today, we join the global community in commemorating World Stroke Day, emphasizing the importance of stroke prevention, timely intervention, and support for survivors.

Stroke is a leading cause of death and disability in Nigeria, but it's largely preventable and treatable. We urge all Rivers State residents to prioritize their health by:

Recognizing stroke symptoms: Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty, and Time to call emergency services ( )

Adopting healthy lifestyles: Regular exercise, balanced diet, and managing underlying conditions like hypertension and diabetes.

Seeking medical attention promptly: Timely treatment can significantly improve outcomes

Let's work together to reduce stroke incidence and improve care for survivors in Rivers State.

BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Early detection saves lives. Let's prioritize breast health, support those affected, and work together to create a cancer-free future.

Let's raise awareness, promote education, and encourage regular screenings. Together, we can make a difference.

WORLD POLIO DAY

Today, we join the global community in commemorating World Polio Day, reaffirming our commitment to a polio-free world.

We recognize the tireless efforts of healthcare workers, volunteers, and partners in polio eradication efforts. Let's continue to work together to immunize every child, strengthen healthcare systems, and ensure a polio-free future for generations to come.

The Red Letter: A National Call to Protect Our Health

📌“The Red Letter” from the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, , is more than an announcement. It’s a call to every Nigerian to take ownership of our nation’s health.

📌Through this message, the Minister announces the release of ₦32.9 billion under the Basic Health Care Provision Fund already disbursed directly to primary health care facilities across Nigeria.

📌It’s a reminder that these funds belong to you and your community, to strengthen clinics, improve services, and save lives.

This Red Letter embodies the heart of the Federal Government’s health reforms under the Renewed Hope Agenda ; transparency, community participation, and shared responsibility in building a stronger, fairer health system for all.

BACK ON THE FIELD

The Honourable Commissioner for Health Rivers State, Dr. Adaeze Chidinma Oreh recently rejoined her team back on the field, visiting the project sites that had been somewhat deemphasised during the inter-regnum.

First, was an unscheduled trip to assess the ongoing works at Zonal Hospital, Degema. This was followed by a brief stopover at the Model Primary Healthcare Centre, Degema to discuss patient patronage, take a look at monthly data on antenatal care, skilled birth attendant supervised deliveries, nutrition support and immunizations.

In her words "The real work continues, and we are here to oversee it for the good of our people".

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO OUR ESTEEMED DEPUTY GOVERNOR, PROF. (MRS) NGOZI N. ODU.

On behalf of the Rivers State Ministry of Health, I wish you a joyous celebration and pray for good health, happiness, and divine strength.

May this new year bring you greater accomplishments and fulfillment.

Congratulations.

Dr. Adaeze Chidinma Oreh
Honourable Commissioner for Health
Rivers State

WORLD TRAUMA DAY 2025

Today, we commemorate World Trauma Day, highlighting the importance of trauma care and prevention. Trauma affects individuals, families, and communities, and it's crucial we work together to create a safer, more supportive environment.

The Rivers State Ministry of Health is committed to improving trauma care services, promoting awareness, and supporting those affected by trauma.

Let's prioritize trauma prevention, provide care and support to those affected, and work towards reducing trauma-related injuries and deaths.

WORLD ARTHRITIS DAY 2025

Today, we join the global community in commemorating World Arthritis Day 2025. This day raises awareness about arthritis and rheumatic diseases, emphasizing the importance of early diagnosis, treatment, and management.

Arthritis affects millions worldwide, impacting quality of life. We're committed to promoting musculoskeletal health, supporting patients, and improving access to care.

Let's work together to:
- Raise awareness about arthritis
- Support those living with arthritis
- Promote early diagnosis and treatment
- Advocate for better care and services.

WORLD HOSPICE AND PALLIATIVE CARE DAY 2025

Today, we join the global community in commemorating World Hospice and Palliative Care Day 2025. This day highlights the importance of providing compassionate care to individuals living with life-limiting illnesses and their families.

The theme for this year's celebration emphasizes the need for universal access to palliative care, ensuring that everyone receives the care and support they need.

The Rivers State Ministry of Health is committed to strengthening palliative care services, promoting awareness, and supporting patients and families affected by life-limiting illnesses.

We recognize the tireless efforts of healthcare professionals, volunteers, and organizations providing palliative care services in our state.

Let's work together to create a society that values compassion, dignity, and quality of life for all individuals, especially those living with life-limiting illnesses.

WORLD MENTAL HEALTH DAY 2025

Today, we join the global community in commemorating World Mental Health Day 2025, with the theme "Access to Services: Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies". This day serves as a reminder of the importance of prioritizing mental health and ensuring access to quality mental health services, especially in times of crisis.

As we celebrate this day, we recognize the growing mental health challenges facing our community, including anxiety, depression, and trauma. We acknowledge the impact of economic pressures, social stigma, and lack of access to mental health services on the well-being of individuals, families, and communities.

The Rivers State Ministry of Health is committed to promoting mental health awareness, reducing stigma, and improving access to mental health services.

We encourage everyone to prioritize their mental health, seek help when needed, and support those around them. Together, we can create a society that values mental health and promotes overall well-being.