Exclusive Interview: Dr. Wale Oladapo on Empowering Nurses to Own Healthcare Facilities and AGPNP’s Role in Reducing Maternal Mortality
Fellow Nurses Africa || Lagos Nigeria || 20 June, 2025.
In an exclusive interview with Fellow Nurses Africa, Dr. Wale Oladapo, Chairman of the Association of General and Private Nurse Practitioners (AGPNP), Lagos State Chapter, revealed a critical gap in Nigeria’s nursing community: many nurses are unaware they can legally own and operate healthcare facilities. He emphasized that nurses can establish nursing homes, convalescence centers, and other private healthcare facilities as long as they practice within their scope of practice and adhere to the legal framework.
Under Dr. Oladapo’s leadership, AGPNP is addressing this gap while preparing for its 16th Annual Scientific Conference, themed “Transforming Healthcare: The Role of Private Nursing Practitioners in Reducing Maternal Mortality in Lagos State.”
FNA: You’ve noted that a large percentage of nurses don’t know they can own healthcare facilities. Can you elaborate on this?
Dr. Wale Oladapo: It’s surprising, but true—a significant number of nurses in Nigeria are unaware that they can legally own and operate healthcare facilities like nursing homes or convalescence centers. As registered nurses, they are fully qualified to establish private practices, provided they operate within their scope of practice and comply with the legal framework set by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) and the Lagos State Ministry of Health.
This lack of awareness limits the potential of nurses to contribute to Nigeria’s healthcare system as entrepreneurs. AGPNP is working to change this by educating nurses about their rights and opportunities, offering guidance on regulatory compliance, and providing a platform for professional growth. Owning a healthcare facility is not only legal but also a powerful way for nurses to expand access to quality care.
FNA: Can you tell us about AGPNP and its purpose in supporting private nursing practitioners?
Dr. Wale Oladapo: AGPNP stands for the Association of General and Private Nurse Professionals. We represent private nursing practitioners, including those who own or operate nursing homes, convalescence centers, and other healthcare facilities in Lagos. Our mission is to promote quality healthcare, enhance professional development, and advocate for the interests of our members.
Through conferences, workshops, webinars, and collaborative initiatives, AGPNP empowers nurses to deliver exceptional care while fostering entrepreneurship. We also educate our members about their legal rights to own healthcare facilities, ensuring they practice within the boundaries of the law and maintain high standards of care.
FNA: What are the key roles of AGPNP in Lagos’ healthcare ecosystem?
Dr. Wale Oladapo: AGPNP plays a multifaceted role in strengthening private healthcare in Lagos. We promote professional standards by ensuring compliance with NMCN and Lagos State Ministry of Health guidelines. We advocate for policies that support private nursing practitioners, giving them a voice in shaping the industry.
Additionally, we facilitate continuous professional development through training and events like our upcoming conference. Most importantly, we’re empowering nurses to recognize their potential as healthcare entrepreneurs, addressing critical issues like maternal and child health to align with SDG 3—ensuring healthy lives and well-being for all.
FNA: Some owners of nursing and care homes are not members of AGPNP. What are your thoughts on this?
Dr. Wale Oladapo: With my background in law, I know you can’t legally force anyone to join an organization. However, I strongly encourage all private nursing practitioners to become part of AGPNP. Membership provides a professional identity, access to resources, and support during challenges. It’s particularly valuable for those looking to start or manage their own healthcare facilities, as we offer guidance on navigating the legal and regulatory landscape.
Unity strengthens our ability to address industry challenges, from compliance to competition. AGPNP is here to support nurses in realizing their potential as healthcare owners and leaders.
FNA: What is AGPNP’s stance on the use of auxiliary nurses in some private healthcare facilities?
Dr. Wale Oladapo: AGPNP has zero tolerance for training auxiliary nurses or engaging in any form of quackery. Our members are required to employ registered nurses in their facilities, supported by a limited number of nursing assistants. Patient safety is our top priority, and we ensure that all practices align with national and international standards.
Any facility found training or relying on auxiliary nurses faces suspension or shutdown. This policy protects patients and upholds the integrity of the nursing profession, especially for those running their own healthcare facilities.
FNA: Tell us about AGPNP’s upcoming 16th Annual Scientific Conference and its significance.
Dr. Wale Oladapo: The 16th Annual Scientific Conference is a landmark event for AGPNP, and we’re excited to bring it back after a hiatus due to economic challenges. The theme, “Transforming Healthcare: The Role of Private Nursing Practitioners in Reducing Maternal Mortality in Lagos State,” addresses a critical issue in Nigeria’s healthcare system.
This conference will bring together stakeholders, policymakers, politicians, and healthcare professionals to discuss solutions for reducing maternal mortality. Expect keynote addresses, workshops to enhance skills in maternal and child health, and networking opportunities to foster collaboration. We’ll also focus on empowering nurses to own healthcare facilities and contribute to SDG 3. This is a must-attend event for anyone committed to transforming Nigeria’s healthcare landscape.
FNA: How does the conference’s focus on maternal mortality tie into AGPNP’s broader vision?
Dr. Wale Oladapo: Maternal mortality is a major challenge in Nigeria, and private nursing practitioners, many of whom own healthcare facilities, are uniquely positioned to make a difference. Our conference aligns with AGPNP’s vision of advancing quality healthcare and improving community well-being.
By equipping nurses with the skills and knowledge to address maternal health, and by encouraging them to establish their own facilities, we’re driving impactful change. This aligns with SDG 3, ensuring that private practitioners play a central role in achieving universal health coverage and better maternal outcomes.
FNA: What message would you like to share with nurses, especially those hesitant to start their own healthcare facilities?
Dr. Wale Oladapo: To all nurses, I say: You have the power to own and lead healthcare facilities! It’s legal, achievable, and impactful as long as you practice within your scope of practice and follow the legal framework. AGPNP is here to guide you every step of the way, from navigating regulations to accessing professional development.
Join AGPNP, attend our 16th Annual Scientific Conference, and connect with a community dedicated to transforming healthcare. Together, we can reduce maternal mortality, achieve SDG 3, and build a healthier Nigeria.
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