Nurse | Midwife | Community Leader
Early Life
Madam Priscilla Preye Appah was born on August 28, 1936, at Kaiama Maternity Home, under the care of the renowned midwife, Mrs. Christiana Koripamo. Mrs. Koripamo, the first midwife in the Niger Delta and among the earliest registered nurse-midwives in Nigeria, played a significant role in shaping Priscilla’s aspirations, inspiring her lifelong commitment to healthcare.
She was born into a respected family. Her father, Mr. Burudongha Appah, hailed from Wanka Wari in Kolokuma/Opokuma Local Government Area, while her mother, Mrs. Banioru Obamein Rossanah Appah (née Boufuru), was from Igbelewari Okotiama in Gbarain Ekpetiama, Yenagoa Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.
Education
Priscilla began her formal education at Reverend Proctor Memorial School, Kaiama, where she obtained her First School Leaving Certificate in 1953.
In pursuit of a career in healthcare, she moved to Aba in the mid-1950s to undertake a Grade Two Midwifery programme at the General Hospital. Her diligence and excellence earned her commendable results.
Driven by a desire for continuous professional growth, she later obtained her Grade One Midwifery Certificate on December 15, 1977. She further advanced her medical training at the School of Nursing, Port Harcourt, where she earned her General Nursing Certificate on April 10, 1987.
During her time at the School of Nursing, she was fondly nicknamed “Great Grandmother” by the late Dr. Long John, owing to her status as the oldest member of her class—a testament to her determination and lifelong pursuit of knowledge.
Professional Career
Madam Priscilla Preye Appah began her working life as a teacher, first in Gbarain and later briefly in Kaiama. However, her passion for healthcare soon led her to transition into midwifery.
She commenced her medical career at Sabagreia Maternity Home and, upon returning from Aba in 1958, worked alongside notable professionals such as the late Mrs. Agnes Ikpaikpai and Miss Roseline Okubo.
She later served as a domiciliary midwife in Lagos for three years before returning to Bayelsa. Upon her return, she became the pioneer midwife at Oporoma Maternity Home, where she played a foundational role in maternal healthcare delivery.
In 1971, she joined the Rivers State Government and was posted to Yenagoa General Hospital. By 1974, she was transferred to General Hospital, Port Harcourt, where she served in various government clinics.
Her career progression saw her posted to General Hospital Elele-Alimini and subsequently to General Hospital Ahoada, where she served diligently for nearly nine years.
Following the creation of Bayelsa State in 1996, she was initially shortlisted for an administrative position but was instead deployed to General Hospital Okolobiri (now Niger Delta University Teaching Hospital). She served there for four years and was reinstated as Chief Nursing Officer on August 28, 2000.
After decades of dedicated service to humanity, she retired honourably from the civil service.
Christian Life
Madam Priscilla was raised in the Anglican faith by her devout mother. She was baptized and confirmed by the late Bishop E.T. Dimieary.
A committed and active member of the church, she served as a chorister and contributed meaningfully to the spiritual growth of her congregation. Her life reflected strong Christian values of compassion, humility, and service.
Social and Community Life
A highly sociable and respected figure, Madam Priscilla Preye Appah was deeply involved in community development and women’s advancement.
She was a prominent member and leader within the Izon-speaking community and played a key role in the Kaiama Ladies Progressive Women organization. This group was among the earliest in the region to affiliate with the National Council of Women Societies of Nigeria in 1986.
Through her leadership, mentorship, and service, she impacted countless lives as a mother, caregiver, and role model.
Legacy and Demise
Madam Priscilla Preye Appah lived a life defined by resilience, dedication, and service. Her legacy spans her contributions as a nurse, midwife, teacher, and community leader.
She touched the lives of many through her compassion, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to humanity.
On September 21, 2023, at 3:15 a.m., she passed away peacefully at the age of 87. She leaves behind a lasting legacy of faith, service, and positive impact on her community and beyond.
