International Nurses Week 2025: Lagos Shines Bright with Nurses’ Resilience and Excellence
Fellow Nurses Africa News Desk || Lagos Nigeria || May 25th 2025.
From May 19th to 22nd, 2025, Lagos, Nigeria, came alive with vibrant celebrations as the National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM), Lagos State Council, marked International Nurses Week in grand style. Led by the dynamic Comrade Christianah Olasumbo Adeboboye and her State Administrative Council (SAC) members, the event was a powerful showcase of the pivotal role nurses play in healthcare and the broader economy. The theme, “Our Nurses, Our Future: Caring for Nurses Strengthens Economics,” resonated deeply, highlighting the indispensable contributions of nurses and the need for systemic support to empower them.
A Week of Knowledge, Celebration, and Recognition
The festivities kicked off with a series of rich, educative, and knowledge-based scientific sessions, expertly anchored by Nurse Toyin Akere from NANNM’s National Headquarters in Abuja. These sessions provided a platform for nurses to deepen their expertise, share innovative practices, and engage in professional development, reinforcing their role as the backbone of Nigeria’s healthcare system.
The opening ceremony was a dignified affair, graced by high-profile representatives. The First Lady of Lagos State, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwoolu, was ably represented by Dr. Nike Oke Osanyintolu, while the Honorable Commissioner for Health was represented by Dr. Funmi Oludara, Director of Family Health and Nutrition. Nurse Sarah Balogun stood in for the Special Adviser to the Governor, and Nurse Sola Aketi represented the Permanent Secretary for Health. Their presence underscored the Lagos State Government’s commitment to supporting the nursing profession and recognizing its economic impact.
The keynote address, delivered by Dr. (Nurse) Ololade Fadipe, Commissioner 4 at the Health Service Commission, captivated attendees. Centered on the theme “Our Nurses, Our Future: Caring for Nurses Strengthens Economics,” Dr. Fadipe emphasized that investing in nurses—through better training, fair compensation, and supportive policies—directly strengthens healthcare systems and boosts economic stability. She highlighted how nurses drive patient care, reduce hospital readmissions, and contribute to community health, ultimately fostering a healthier, more productive workforce.
The Theme: Caring for Nurses, Powering Economic Growth
The theme of International Nurses Week 2025 carried profound significance. Nurses are not just caregivers; they are economic catalysts. By providing high-quality care, they reduce healthcare costs, improve patient outcomes, and enable communities to thrive. However, to sustain this impact, nurses need adequate support. This includes access to continuous education, safe working conditions, mental health resources, and fair remuneration.
The Lagos State Government’s presence at the event signaled a growing recognition of this truth. By investing in nurses, governments can reduce the economic burden of preventable diseases, enhance workforce productivity, and build resilient healthcare systems. The theme called for a collaborative effort between policymakers, healthcare institutions, and communities to prioritize nurses’ welfare, ensuring they can continue to deliver exceptional care.
A Night of Glamour and Recognition
The week culminated in a spectacular gala and award night, celebrating the best nurses from Lagos State Primary Healthcare, Lagos State Health Service Commission, Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, Lagos State Ministry of Health, and the National Orthopedic Hospital. The event, chaired by Ambassador Dr. Musa, with the Iyaloja of Computer Village as the Mother of the Day, was a vibrant tribute to nursing excellence.
A highlight of the evening was the prestigious DAISY Award presentation, led by Nurse Sola Aketi, Director of Nursing Services at the Ministry of Health, and Dr. Esther Osunluyi, representing NANNNA, the award’s sponsor from the USA. The honoree, Nurse Folusho Bosede Eniayewun, a Chief Nursing Officer at the National Orthopedic Hospital, was celebrated for her exceptional dedication and compassion. Her workplace later honored her with a special ceremony, attended by the Chief Medical Director, Dr. Lawal, Head of Nursing, Nurse Ogundipe, NANNM unit Chairman Nurse Osomonika, Provost of the Nursing College, Nurse Oseni, and other nurse managers.
The live band and media coverage added flair to the event, ensuring the nurses’ achievements were broadcast far and wide. The presence of Directors of Nursing Services from various facilities and other dignitaries further elevated the occasion, showcasing the unity and strength of the nursing community in Lagos.
The Role of Nurses and Government Collaboration
Nurses are the heartbeat of healthcare, providing round-the-clock care, advocating for patients, and bridging gaps in underserved communities. In Lagos, NANNM’s efforts during International Nurses Week highlighted their critical contributions to the state’s health sector. From primary healthcare centers to specialized hospitals, nurses are at the forefront of delivering life-saving interventions, promoting public health, and driving economic stability through improved health outcomes.
The government’s role in supporting nurses cannot be overstated. By investing in nursing education, improving working conditions, and providing career advancement opportunities, the Lagos State Government is setting a precedent for other regions. The attendance of high-ranking officials at the event signaled a commitment to fostering policies that empower nurses, ensuring they have the tools and resources to thrive.
Collaboration between NANNM, healthcare institutions, and the government is key to addressing challenges such as nurse shortages, burnout, and inadequate infrastructure. By prioritizing nurses’ welfare, Lagos is paving the way for a stronger, more sustainable healthcare system that benefits both citizens and the economy.
Are you a part of our community? Don’t be left out, Join the African Largest Nursing Community on WhatsApp
International Nurses Week 2025 in Lagos was more than a celebration—it was a powerful reminder of the vital role nurses play in shaping a healthier, more prosperous future. Under the leadership of Comrade Christianah Olasumbo Adeboboye and with the support of the Lagos State Government, NANNM showcased the strength, resilience, and expertise of nurses. The event’s theme, “Our Nurses, Our Future: Caring for Nurses Strengthens Economics,” serves as a clarion call for continued investment in the nursing profession.
Are you a nurse or healthcare professional looking to connect with peers across Africa? Join the largest African nursing community on WhatsApp to network, share knowledge, and grow together: Click here to join.
Fellow Nurses Africa is the independent voice of African nursing. We educate, inform, and support the nursing profession
