General Hospital Odan Lagos (Lagos Island General Hospital)

General Hospital, Lagos, is the oldest hospital in Nigeria. General Hospital Odan, Lagos is a historic and pioneering healthcare institution, strategically located in the heart of Lagos Island, between Broad Street and Marina, the hospital has been a cornerstone of healthcare delivery in Lagos State and a key player in Nigeria’s medical history.

What is the origin and evolution of the hospital?

The hospital was originally called the African Hospital, serving the British Army. Due to an incident of racial discrimination in the 1950s involving a black man, Mr. Ivor Commies, and a white man, Mr. Keith, the name was changed to General Hospital to reflect a more inclusive identity.

On October 1, 1960, the hospital was handed over to the Federal Government. Later, upon the creation of Lagos State on May 27, 1967, ownership was transferred to the Lagos State Government.

What are the notable contributions of General Hospital, Lagos?

• It established Nigeria’s first nursing school in 1952, where nurses like Mr. J.A. Agboola were trained.

• It served as the birthplace of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), with Dr. Majekodunmi as the founding secretary.

• It functioned as a training ground for top Nigerian doctors such as Prof. Olikoye Ransome-Kuti, Dr. Ore Falomo, Dr. Leke Pitan, Dr. Abimbola Awoliyi, and many others.

• It has maintained a reputation for training pharmacists, radiographers, technologists, and medical officers across West Africa.

Who are some of the notable leaders of the hospital?

Prominent Medical Directors include:

• Dr. Samuel Emmanuel (first African Medical Director)

• Dr. Savage (appointed in 1961)

• Dr. Majekodunmi (also led Massey Street Hospital)

• Dr. Pearse, Dr. Ajose Williams, Dr. G.O. Williams, Dr. A. Efunkoya, among others

• Dr. (Mrs.) R.O. Olatunji, who took over in July 2002

What departments and services does the hospital offer?

1. Pathology

• One of the oldest departments.

• It trained many professionals, including Dr. E.T. Smith, Dr. Ahimie, and Dr. Boyo-Ekwueme.

• It formerly operated mortuaries at MacGregor Island and near the Engineering Department.

2. Radiology

• Established in 1913.

• Headed by British expatriates before transitioning to Nigerian leadership, including Dr. G.O. Williams and Dr. T.O. Odusanya.

3. Chest Clinic

• Focused on treating tuberculosis.

• Originally under the Federal Government and later managed by Lagos State Government.

4. Dental Department

• One of the founding units of the hospital.

• Notable dentists include Dr. Inyang, Dr. Ogunbiyi, and Dr. Arole.

• The department is jointly operated by Federal and State Governments.

5. Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation

• Founded by Dr. B.O. Adebonojo over 40 years ago.

• Now led by Dr. S.A. Giwa, it supports recovery for patients with physical impairments.

What is the mission of General Hospital, Lagos?

General Hospital, Lagos aims to:

• Deliver quality healthcare services to all patients regardless of race, religion, status, or background.

• Serve as a training hub for medical and allied health professionals, including postgraduate training.