Dr. Ameyo Stella Adadevoh, OON (27 October 1956 – 19 August 2014), was a Nigerian physician whose bravery saved the country from a major Ebola outbreak in 2014. She became a national hero after she stopped the spread of the deadly virus by refusing to discharge an infected Liberian-American patient, Patrick Sawyer, despite intense pressure from officials. Her courage and firm decision protected millions of Nigerians from a possible epidemic and earned her posthumous recognition across the world.
Ameyo Adadevoh Profile
| Name | Dr. Ameyo Adadevoh |
| Real Name | Ameyo Stella Adadevoh |
| Date of Birth | 27 October 1956 |
| Date of Death | 19 August 2014 (57 years) |
| Nationality | Nigerian and Ghanaian |
| Occupation | Physician |
| Religion | Christanity |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Net Worth | $200,000 |
| Copied from | contents101.com |
Educational Background
Ameyo began her education at Mainland Preparatory School in Yaba, Lagos (1961–1962), and later attended Corona School, Yaba (1964–1968). She continued her secondary education at Queen’s School, Ibadan (1969–1974).
She studied medicine at the University of Lagos College of Medicine, where she earned her MBBS degree. After her housemanship at Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) in 1981, she completed her residency and earned her qualification from the West African College of Physicians and Surgeons in 1983. She later went to London for a fellowship in endocrinology at Hammersmith Hospital.
Career
Dr. Adadevoh dedicated her life to medicine and worked for over two decades at First Consultants Medical Centre in Lagos, where she served as the Lead Consultant Physician and Endocrinologist. She was known for her professionalism, compassion, and commitment to patient care.
In 2014, during the Ebola crisis, her quick thinking and courage prevented the virus from spreading across Nigeria. Despite pressure from Liberian officials to release the infected patient, she stood her ground, saying she could not risk public safety. Her decision to quarantine the patient was later praised globally as the key step that stopped a national health disaster.
Controversies
Dr. Adadevoh was not known for any personal controversies. The only public tension she faced came during the Ebola incident, when she resisted strong political and diplomatic pressure to release the infected Liberian official. Her firm stand, however, later became a symbol of integrity and courage.
Personal Life
Dr. Adadevoh was married to Afolabi Cardoso, and they had one son. She was described by family, friends, and colleagues as warm, intelligent, and deeply caring.
Ameyo Adadevoh Net Worth
Dr. Ameyo Stella Adadevoh’s net worth was estimated to be around $200,000 during her life time.
Death
Dr. Ameyo Stella Adadevoh contracted the Ebola virus while treating Nigeria’s first confirmed patient, Patrick Sawyer, in July 2014. Despite wearing protective gear and taking precautions, she became infected due to her close contact with the patient during his care and isolation.
On August 4, 2014, it was confirmed that she had tested positive for the Ebola virus disease. She was immediately placed under quarantine and continued to receive treatment at the isolation centre in Lagos. Sadly, she passed away on 19 August 2014, after fighting the illness for several days.
Her body was safely decontaminated and cremated by government officials to prevent further spread of the virus. Later, her family collected her ashes and held a private burial ceremony on 12 September 2014 in Lagos. Dr. Adadevoh’s death deeply moved the nation. Nigerians mourned her as a selfless hero who gave her life to protect others. Her courage, professionalism, and sacrifice remain an inspiration to health workers and citizens around the world.