Nigerian Born Oluwatosin Olateju Makes History As First Black Female Public Health Commissioner in Maryland, US

Nigerian-born Dr. Oluwatosin Olateju was recently appointed by Governor Wes Moore of Maryland, making her the first black woman in the state’s history to serve as commissioner and co-chair of the newly established Commission on Public Health.

The Commission will assess the foundational public health capabilities of the Maryland Department of Health (MDH) and Local Health Departments (LHDs), and make recommendations to improve the delivery of foundational public health services in the state.

Reacting to the news, the Chairman/CEO, of Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) Hon Abike Dabiri-Erewa, said the Commission will not be tired of celebrating the Diaspora icons bringing honour and fame to the country through their chosen career.

Dabiri-Erewa said it was particularly pleasing that more Nigerian women are shining in the global arena thus putting Nigeria in a robust positive image abroad.

She described the appointment of Olateju in Maryland, US as a Commissioner as an added blessings to Nigeria coming shortly after that of Dr. Olusimbo Ige as Commissioner in the Chicago Department of Public health.