NHEA 2025 Ignites Healthcare Revolution as Nigeria Celebrates Champions of Medical Excellence and Innovation

Nigeria’s health sector witnessed a landmark event on Friday, June 27, 2025, as stakeholders gathered at the Eko Hotel & Suites in Lagos for the 11th edition of the Nigerian Healthcare Excellence Awards (NHEA).

The prestigious ceremony brought together leaders and professionals in the healthcare industry to celebrate individuals and institutions demonstrating exceptional commitment to innovation, quality service, and transformational impact in Nigeria’s healthcare delivery.

Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) reports that the NHEA has evolved into more than just an annual awards night. It has become a powerful platform for promoting national health reform, encouraging best practices, and motivating service providers to push boundaries in the interest of improved patient outcomes and system-wide progress.

Stakeholders at the event expressed hope that public recognition of exemplary performance would serve as a strong motivator for others in the sector to emulate such standards. For many participants, the event served as a symbol of the progress being made in health service delivery and a call to deepen reform and innovation.

This year’s edition was graced by high-level dignitaries, including the Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and the Governor of Katsina State, Dr. Dikko Umar Radda. The Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, also attended, reaffirming federal support for the recognition of excellence in the health sector.

Several organisations and initiatives were honoured for their contributions to healthcare innovation, self-reliance, and community development. Afrimedical Manufacturing and Supplies Limited received commendation for its role in advancing the local production of medical syringes.

The company’s efforts have reduced Nigeria’s dependence on foreign medical imports and strengthened the country’s health security.

Another notable recipient was ABUAD Multisystem Hospital, acknowledged for its model of high-quality, patient-focused care. The institution has set new benchmarks in healthcare delivery and is recognised as a reference point for others in the industry seeking to enhance their standards.

The NHEA also highlighted impactful social programmes that have directly addressed community health challenges. One such initiative is the Jumejilo Multi-Birth Assistance Programme (JMAP), founded by the First Lady of Lagos State, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu.

The programme provides critical support to mothers of multiple births, addressing a unique aspect of maternal and child health with empathy and innovation.

In his address, Dr. Wale Alabi, the Project Director of NHEA, stressed that the awards are not just about applauding individual or institutional success. Rather, they reflect a wider shift toward systemic transformation in Nigeria’s health sector.

He noted that the honorees represent tangible progress in access, service quality, and health innovation.

“What we are celebrating goes beyond individual accolades,” Dr. Alabi said. “It is a reflection of real impact—progress in improving healthcare access, service delivery, and technological advancement.”

He added that the NHEA was designed to inspire healthcare professionals, policymakers, and investors to commit more resources and energy to achieving lasting improvements across the sector.

As the 2025 edition concluded, organisers expressed optimism that the momentum generated would extend beyond the ceremony.

The awards, they said, serve as a beacon to inspire future initiatives and reforms that prioritise excellence, sustainability, and leadership in healthcare.

The recurring message from the night was clear: by acknowledging and rewarding excellence, Nigeria can accelerate progress in building a resilient and efficient health system that meets the needs of all its citizens.

With each edition of the Nigerian Healthcare Excellence Awards, the drive for innovation and integrity in healthcare continues to gain momentum, charting a path toward a healthier, more self-reliant Nigeria