The Medical Director and Chief Executive Officer of General Hospital, Ijede, Dr. Olufemi Aletan, has showered praise on the nurses at the facility for their unwavering enthusiasm, professionalism, and dedication in service delivery, as the hospital joined the rest of the world in commemorating the 2025 International Nurses Week.
Speaking during the event held at the hospital premises, Dr. Aletan lauded the critical role nurses play in sustaining the health system, noting that their compassion, resilience, and commitment remain the backbone of quality healthcare delivery in Lagos and Nigeria at large.
He said, “Our nurses continue to show remarkable devotion to their patients, working tirelessly under challenging conditions. Their passion is evident in the way they approach their duties with empathy, skill, and humility. As management, we recognize and deeply appreciate their service to humanity.”
The celebration, which spanned from May 6th to 12th in line with global observance, featured a series of engaging and impactful activities including a themed opening ceremony, a medical outreach to Lagos residents, a food competition, and a quiz segment that featured participation from various wards within the hospital.
This year’s global theme, “Our Nurses. Our Future. Caring for Nurses Strengthens Economies,” was at the centre of discussions during the opening ceremony, where healthcare experts emphasized the need for investment in the welfare and development of nurses as a strategy to strengthen national health systems and drive economic growth.
Dr. Aletan highlighted that empowering nurses through better working conditions, training, and mental health support is not just a health sector issue but a national development priority. “If we truly want a healthy and productive society, we must start by caring for those who care for us — our nurses,” he added.
The week-long celebration also witnessed a free medical outreach program aimed at giving back to the community and promoting preventive healthcare among residents of Ijede and its environs. Hundreds of beneficiaries received free medical consultations, screenings, and basic treatments as part of the outreach.
In line with tradition, the hospital’s wards competed in a lively food contest and quiz finale which added colour and camaraderie to the celebration, further strengthening team spirit among staff.
International Nurses Day, observed annually from May 6th to 12th in honour of the birth anniversary of Florence Nightingale, underscores the indispensable role nurses play globally in delivering primary, emergency, and palliative care.
Dr. Aletan concluded his remarks by calling on government authorities, stakeholders, and private organizations to scale up investment in nursing education and welfare, describing it as a vital step toward building a resilient health sector in Nigeria.
The celebration at General Hospital, Ijede, reflected the spirit of gratitude, unity, and progress as the hospital reaffirmed its commitment to supporting its nursing workforce in their life-saving work.