Dr. Olusimbo Ige, a Nigerian professional, has been appointed as the Commissioner of the Chicago Department of Public Health. She is now recognized as the first black woman to hold such a position in the department.
The announcement was made by Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), who praised Ige’s accomplishment as “extraordinary.”
In her congratulatory statement, Dabiri-Erewa highlighted the significance of the moment, stating, “History made! Congrats to the first black woman in the History of Chicago Department of Public Health to be appointed as Commissioner.”
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The NIDCOM spokesperson, Abdur-Rahman Balogun, relayed Dabiri-Erewa’s message, emphasizing that Ige’s appointment reinforces the positive impact of Nigerians in the Diaspora.
Dabiri-Erewa urged Dr. Ige to uphold high expectations and serve as a motivation for other young Nigerian professionals to excel in their chosen fields and represent the country positively.
Dr. Ige’s appointment followed Mayor Brandon Johnson’s approval, following the dismissal of the former Commissioner, Dr. Allison Arwady.
Before her new role, Dr. Ige held the position of Managing Director of Programs at the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, a non-profit public health organization based in New Jersey.
Her appointment signifies a notable achievement and recognition of Nigerians making significant contributions globally.
