Samson Ossai: The Inspirational Journey of a Quadruple-Licensed Nurse and Global Nursing Leader
In an era where the global healthcare landscape is rapidly evolving, a few names stand out as trailblazers — and Samson Ossai is one of them. A quadruple-licensed nurse, professional advocate, digital healthcare leader, and NHS award recipient, Ossai’s story is one of grit, growth, and groundbreaking achievements.
We had the privilege of sitting down with this extraordinary nurse leader to learn more about his inspiring journey, the challenges he’s faced, and his powerful vision for the future of nursing in Nigeria and across Africa.
A Humble Beginning with a Global Vision
Samson Ossai began his nursing career in 2021 after graduating from the School of Nursing in Lagos, Nigeria. He quickly stepped into the demanding world of Paediatric Intensive Care before taking a leap of faith that would change the trajectory of his life and career.
In the same year, Ossai relocated to the UK after passing the IELTS and NMC CBT exams. By 2022, he had become a UK Registered Nurse (UKRN), and within two years of entering the profession, he had achieved what many only dream of: licensure as a Registered Nurse in four countries — Nigeria, the UK, the USA, and Canada
Climbing the Ranks: Band 5 to Band 7 in Just Two Years
After starting as a Respiratory Staff Nurse in the UK, Ossai transitioned to ICU and Critical Care,
quickly earning a reputation for excellence. In an extraordinary career move, he went from Band 5 to a Band 7 leadership role within just two years, serving as the Professional Nurse Advocates/Professional Midwifery Advocates Lead — a feat that speaks volumes about his dedication and leadership prowess.
A Royal Recognition and a Cultural Mission
Samson currently serves as a regional Chair for Internationally Educated Healthcare Professionals Recruitment and Retention at NHS England.
One of the most remarkable milestones in his career was in 2023 when he received national honorary recognition and was invited to Buckingham Palace by His Majesty, King Charles.
“It was surreal,” Ossai recalls. “Meeting the King, shaking his hand, and taking photos was more than just an honour — it was a moment that validated years of hard work and sacrifice.”
In the same spirit of representation, Ossai served as the African Cultural Ambassador for his NHS Trust. In this role, he curated and promoted Cultural Awareness Festivals, bridging cultural gaps and celebrating diversity in the multicultural NHS environment.
“This role gave me the opportunity to challenge negative stereotypes and reshape the narrative around African healthcare professionals,” he says.
Mentorship: The Fuel for Career Advancement
Throughout his journey, mentorship has been a consistent theme. “Sometimes, the only thing standing between where you are and where you want to be is access to the right guidance,” Ossai reflects.
He passionately advocates for mentorship as a tool for empowerment — especially for internationally educated nurses navigating unfamiliar systems. “Mentorship is the fuel that propels the wheel of career advancement,” he insists.
The State of Nursing in Nigeria: A Call for Strategic Reform
When asked about nursing leadership in Nigeria, Ossai doesn’t hold back.
“Currently, the state of nursing leadership in Nigeria is squiggly — lacking sustainable structures, clear vision, and direction,” he says. He attributes much of this dysfunction to political interference and a weakened regulatory system, particularly the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN).
For him, the key to transformation lies in building a transparent, accountable, and independent NMCN that can offer strategic oversight and elevate the profession.
Nurses in Africa: Fighting Through a Broken System
According to Ossai, the challenges facing nurses in Africa go beyond poor pay and inadequate facilities. “The real issue is leadership — or the lack thereof,” he states. “With effective leadership, the training, welfare, and professionalism of Nigerian nurses can be drastically improved.”
A Digital Future for Healthcare
With additional qualifications as a Project Manager, Digital Clinical Safety Practitioner, Quality Improvement Practitioner, and Incident Investigator, Ossai is now gearing up for his new role as a Digital Clinical Safety Officer — and working toward an MBA.
“I’m passionate about shaping the digital transformation of healthcare,” he says. “The future of nursing is digital, and we must be at the forefront.”
A Message to Nurses Across Africa and Beyond
To early-career nurses and aspiring professionals, Ossai’s message is clear:
“Real learning starts after nursing school. Keep developing yourself, seek knowledge, and don’t be afraid to dream big. Nursing is constantly evolving — and so should you.”
Final Thoughts
Samson Ossai’s story is one of resilience, bold vision, and relentless pursuit of excellence. For many African nurses, his journey serves as a powerful reminder that with the right mindset, mentorship, and ambition, it’s possible to not just survive — but thrive and lead on the global stage.
Look like a more personal achievement to me. I celebrate him but he can do better to help those looking for way out too. I did feel applications to his trust but they keep saying they can’t support unless u are in the UK and bet me I’m fully registered. I don’t need their support to register just a chance to get a job. Kelvin I guess u can advocate better. Peace and love