The Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Primary Health Care Board (LSPHCB), Doctor Ibrahim Mustafa, has commended nurses across the state’s primary healthcare system for their unwavering dedication, resilience, and invaluable contributions to improving health outcomes in Lagos State, urging them to remain committed to excellence while intentionally pursuing career and professional development.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of the 2026 Nurse Leaders Retreat, themed “Restored to Lead: Strengthening Bonds, Renewing Energy,” Doctor Mustafa applauded the critical role nurse leaders continue to play in strengthening primary healthcare service delivery across the State despite the demanding nature of their responsibilities.
He encouraged participants to view leadership as a continuous journey of learning, growth, and service, stressing the need to invest in personal well-being, acquire new knowledge, embrace innovation, and take advantage of opportunities for career advancement.
The Permanent Secretary noted that the Lagos State Government remains committed to strengthening the healthcare workforce through continuous capacity building, supportive policies, and initiatives that promote excellence in service delivery.
He urged nurse leaders to remain worthy ambassadors of the profession by mentoring younger colleagues, upholding the highest ethical standards, and demonstrating exemplary leadership in their various facilities and districts.
Doctor Mustafa also commended the Directorate of Nursing Services, LSPHCB, Nurse Anne Olasumbo Oyesanya for sustaining the annual Nurse Leaders Retreat, describing the initiative as a strategic platform for strengthening leadership capacity, fostering collaboration, and promoting the well-being of nurse managers. He reaffirmed the Board’s commitment to supporting programmes that enhance staff welfare and professional development.
In her welcome address, the Director of Nursing Services, Lagos State Primary Health Care Board, Nurse Anne Olasumbo Oyesanya, said the annual retreat has evolved into a unique platform for renewal, learning, collaboration, mentorship, and fellowship among nurse leaders across the Board.
She explained that following the successful maiden edition in 2024 and the consolidation of leadership development efforts in 2025, the 2026 retreat intentionally focuses on the wellness of leaders, recognising that effective leadership begins with healthy, resilient, and emotionally balanced individuals.
According to her, the theme, “Restored to Lead: Strengthening Bonds, Renewing Energy,” reflects the Board’s commitment to ensuring that nurse leaders are equipped not only professionally but also physically, emotionally, and mentally to continue providing quality leadership within the primary healthcare system.
She noted that the three-day retreat features leadership development sessions, wellness discussions, interactive panel engagements, team-building exercises, recreational activities, outdoor games, and networking opportunities designed to strengthen relationships among nurse leaders while restoring their energy and passion for service.
Other speakers at the retreat include Mrs. Mary Lateef Yusuf, who delivered the keynote address; Mrs. Yetunde Gbafe, Director of Administration and Human Resources, Lagos State Primary Health Care Board; Nurse Bukola Cole, Director of Nursing Services, Lagos State Health Service Commission; Nurse Olasumbo Adeboboye, Chairman, National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM), Lagos State Council; and Nurse Olanike Soremekun, Chairman, FOLGONM, Lagos State Chapter.
The speakers shared valuable insights on leadership, workforce development, staff welfare, resilience, and the importance of nurturing a motivated and professional nursing workforce capable of driving quality primary healthcare service delivery across Lagos State.
The retreat brought together nurse leaders from across the Lagos State Primary Health Care Board, alongside members of the management team, healthcare professionals, development partners, and other distinguished guests.
It is expected to further strengthen leadership capacity, promote staff well-being, enhance collaboration, and reinforce the Board’s commitment to delivering high-quality, people-centred primary healthcare services to residents of Lagos State.
