The Nigeria Healthcare Excellence Awards (NHEA) have solidified their position as the most prestigious recognition in the nation’s healthcare sector. Known as the ‘Oscars of Nigerian Healthcare’, the awards honour individuals and organisations that exemplify excellence, innovation, and dedication in advancing health outcomes in Nigeria. With a legacy of celebrating greatness, the NHEA has become a hallmark of achievement, elevating winners to national and international prominence.
This year, the Nursing and Midwifery Excellence Award, Clinical Research Excellence Award, and Mental Health Excellence Award remain the most sought-after categories. Each category highlights extraordinary professionals who are shaping the future of healthcare. The competition is rigorous, as only two winners per category are selected annually, ensuring that the honorees truly represent the pinnacle of excellence in their respective fields.
The 2022 NHEA Awards Ceremony
The ceremony, held in Lagos on December 10, 2022, was a grand affair attended by prominent figures in healthcare, government, and academia. In a testament to the event’s prestige, the President of Nigeria personally attended, underscoring the importance of the occasion and witnessing the celebration of greatness.
In his keynote speech, the President praised the NHEA for inspiring innovation and driving improvements in the healthcare sector.
“The winners of the NHEA Awards are not just healthcare professionals; they are national heroes transforming lives through their work,” he remarked.
Highlights of the 2022 Winners
Nursing and Midwifery Excellence Award
Loveth Fayehun
Recognised for her groundbreaking work in patient-centered nursing and her revolutionary integration of technology into maternal health programs, Fayehun continues to set new standards for nursing excellence in Nigeria.
Adebayo Akinyemi
A senior midwife renowned for his innovations in reducing maternal mortality, Akinyemi’s work in training midwives and implementing outreach programs has saved countless lives in underserved communities.
Clinical Research Excellence Award
Dr. Chika Nduka
Dr. Nduka’s research in infectious diseases has been a game-changer, particularly in developing strategies to combat tuberculosis in resource-limited settings.
Dr. Ibrahim Balogun
His evidence-based approaches to healthcare have enhanced Nigeria’s clinical research capabilities, especially in tackling chronic illnesses.
Mental Health Excellence Award
Abimbola Olufemi
A recognised leader in mental health advocacy, Olufemi’s trauma-informed care initiatives and community mental health programs have redefined care for vulnerable populations.
Dr. Hadiza Yakubu
Known for her innovative approaches in psychiatric care, Yakubu has advanced mental health education and treatment strategies across the country.
Past Winners and Their Legacy
Nursing and Midwifery Excellence Award
2021: Olufunmilayo Adeyemi Oluwatayo and Dorcas Shonibare, for their transformative work in rural healthcare and nursing education.
2018: Prof. Omolola Irinoye and Nurse Jude Chiedu Nwaobi, whose pioneering advancements in midwifery practices continue to inspire generations.
Clinical Research Excellence Award
2021: Stella Ugbobuaku, for her impactful work in patient-centered clinical trials addressing malaria and tuberculosis.
2018: Dr. Oladipo Bamidele and Dr. Ngozi Amaka, for groundbreaking studies in malaria control and public health.
Mental Health Excellence Award
2021: Dr. Funke Odumakin and Dr. Emeka Okwuosa, for innovative therapies and advocacy that expanded mental health services.
2018: Dr. Joseph Ajayi and Dr. Blessing Ekanem, for pioneering community-based mental health programmes.
The Judging Panel and Criteria
The NHEA prides itself on its rigorous judging process, led by a panel of esteemed healthcare leaders, researchers, and policymakers. This year’s panel included:
Dr. Samuel Adekunle: Renowned professor of medicine and leading researcher in infectious diseases.
Prof. Ifeoma Chukwuma: A distinguished academic and expert in public health policy.
Dr. Uche Igwe: An accomplished surgeon and past recipient of international medical awards.
Dr. Yetunde Olayemi: A healthcare administrator recognised for her contributions to improving healthcare systems in Nigeria.
Judges evaluate nominees based on innovation, impact, leadership, and sustainability. They focus on transformative contributions that improve health outcomes and inspire progress across the healthcare system.
“The winners of the NHEA Awards are individuals and organisations that have risen to the very top of their fields. Their work is a beacon of excellence, shaping the future of healthcare in Nigeria,” remarked Dr. Samuel Adekunle, head of the judging panel.
The Prestige of Winning
Winning an NHEA award is a career-defining achievement. Past winners have enjoyed increased recognition, becoming sought-after speakers at major conferences and influential voices in shaping healthcare policies. Their work often gains international attention, showcasing Nigeria’s potential for global healthcare innovation.
A Legacy of Excellence
The NHEA Awards continue to inspire excellence in the healthcare sector, highlighting the incredible achievements of professionals who are driving transformative change. As the 2022 winners celebrate their success, their stories serve as an inspiration to the next generation of healthcare leaders in Nigeria.
