Ondo State Nurses Held Maiden Leadership Conference for Senior Cadres
History was made on the 24th and 25th, September, 2025 as the National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives (NANNM), Ondo State Council, under the leadership of Comrade Nurse Felix Akintobi Orobode, convened the maiden edition of the Leadership Conference for Nurses on Grade Level 12 and above at the Nurses’ House, Igbatoro Road, Akure.
The epoch-making event, which drew an overwhelming participation of over 600 nurses from across the state, marked a significant step in equipping nurse leaders and aspiring leaders with the requisite skills, knowledge, and strategies needed to lead effectively in administrative, political, and union spheres.
In his welcome address, Comrade Orobode emphasized that leadership in nursing is no longer an option but a necessity for influencing health policies, improving care delivery, and safeguarding the dignity of the profession.
He praised the Executive Governor of Ondo State, His Excellency Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, describing him as “18-0 governor”, “God’s anointed at this point in time to lead the good people of the Sunshine State,” for his strides in revitalizing the health sector.
Key achievements highlighted include:
- Approval for the take-off of the new State College of Nursing.
- Construction of the Ondo State Drugs and Health Commodities Warehouse.
- Regular payment of salaries.
- Appointment of a nurse as a full-time board member of the Hospitals Management Board (HMB).
- Employment of nurses and doctors across health institutions.
- Handover of UNIMEDTH Akure Complex to the Federal Government, making Ondo State home to the first Federal Teaching Hospital.
- Regular employment of nurse interns across state health facilities.
While commending the government, the NANNM Chairman appealed for urgent interventions in areas such as recruitment of more health workers, provision of modern equipment, enforcement of WHO organogram in PHC, correction of errors in call duty allowance at UNIMEDTH, prompt release of pending 2022 HMB conversion letters, uniform allowance implementation, and appointment of more nurses into political positions.
In response to the demands presented by the NANNM Chairman, the government representatives reassured participants of the administration’s commitment to the welfare of nurses and the strengthening of the state’s health system. They affirmed that the four months’ hazard allowance arrears is receiving urgent attention, while the employment of more nurses and doctors is being prioritized to ease workload and improve service delivery. They further disclosed that the long-awaited 2022 HMB conversion letters for nurses are in the final stages and will be released without further delay.
The representatives also emphasized that the rehabilitation and upgrading of health facilities across Ondo State is already ongoing, in line with Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa’s vision for a modern and responsive healthcare system. “This administration values the sacrifices of our nurses, and your welfare remains a top priority,” they assured, pledging sustained partnership with NANNM to deliver accessible and quality healthcare for the people of the Sunshine State.
The conference was graced by eminent personalities, including:
- Secretary to the State Government – Dr. Taiwo Olumide Fasoranti (ably represented).
- Commissioner for Health – Dr. Banji Ajaka.
- Special Adviser on Health – Prof. Simidele Odimayo (ably represented).
- Special Adviser on Labour Matters – Hon. Bola Taiwo (ably represented)
- Chairman, Hospitals Management Board – Dr. Olusegun Victor Ategbole.
- Director-General, Ondo State Contributory Health Scheme – Dr. Abiodun Oyeneyin (ably represented).
- Head of Service – Mr. Bayo Philip (ably represented).
- Permanent Secretary, Establishment and Training – Mrs. Dare-Atunse (ably represented).
- State Director of Nursing Services, Ministry of Health – Mrs. Mary Iyabo Aliu.
- Chairman, NANNM Ondo State Council – Comrade Nurse Orobode Felix A.
- Dean, Faculty of Nursing, UNIMED – Prof. Oluwatosin.
- Full-time Board Member, HMB – Hon. Nurse Aarinola Adamolekun.
- Director of Nursing Services, FMC – Mrs. Folorunso Mujidat.
- Director of Nursing Services, HMB – Mrs. Babatola Oyebola Helen.
- Director of Nursing Services, PHCDA – Mrs. Daodu Ayodele Idowu.
- Director of Nursing Services, UNIMEDTH Ondo – Mrs. Ajetunmobi Fehintola.
- Director of Nursing Services, FUTA Teaching Hospital,
- Representative of Jhpiego.
- Representative of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC).
- Representative of Hospitrane Consulting Ltd – Dr. Afolabi.
The highlights of the conference included:
Keynote Address delivered by Dr. Olaolorunpo Olorunfemi of the Faculty of Nursing Sciences, Achiever’s University, Owo
Public Service Rule Lecture by Mrs. Dare-Atunse, Permanent Secretary, Establishment and Training
Specialized training sessions facilitated by Hospitrane Consulting Ltd., Lagos, under the leadership of Dr. Afolabi
Special recognition was also given to the invaluable support of ORANGHIS and JHPIEGO whose partnership was described as “deeply recognized and highly cherished.”
The conference is expected to serve as a springboard for a new era of nursing leadership and policy influence in Ondo State and beyond.
Signed: Prince Lucky Okikiola AREMU.
PRO/Ag. Secretary, NANNM ONDO STATE COUNCIL.
