The President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., has appointed Dr. Sia Wata Camanor as the Interim Director-General of the National Public Health Institute of Liberia (NPHIL). Dr. Camanor’s appointment follows the dismissal of Dr. Dougbeh Chris Nyan as Director-General of the Institute. The President has also relieved Dr. Adam Lincoln of his position as Deputy Director-General for Administration. A highly respected medical doctor and public health expert, Dr. Camanor brings to the role years of experience in health system management, infectious disease control, and community health leadership.
Her appointment is intended to provide stability and continuity at the Institute as the government moves to restructure and strengthen Liberia’s public health architecture. The National Public Health Institute of Liberia plays a critical role in coordinating national health responses, including disease surveillance, laboratory services, and public health emergency preparedness. Under Dr. Camanor’s interim leadership, the government expects to ensure effective management and restore confidence in the Institute’s governance framework. In making the appointment, President Boakai emphasized his administration’s commitment to accountability, competence, and institutional reform across all public sector entities.
He noted that the leadership change at NPHIL forms part of ongoing efforts to reinforce professionalism, transparency, and efficiency in Liberia’s health institutions. “This decision reflects the government’s resolve to strengthen public health governance and ensure that NPHIL fulfills its mandate to safeguard the health and well-being of the Liberian people,” the Executive Mansion stated. Dr. Camanor is expected to begin work immediately, leading a comprehensive review of NPHIL’s operations and recommending measures to improve coordination between the Institute and the Ministry of Health. The Government of Liberia reassures the public that it remains fully committed to advancing health security, building institutional capacity, and protecting citizens from public health threats.
