Arrival in Britain on 29 June 1935 marked the start of Omo-Oba Adenrele Ademola’s transition from a Nigerian princess to a professional nurse. Born on 2 January 1916 to Ladapo Ademola, the Alake of Abeokuta, she pursued medical training in London during the 1930s and maintained a professional career within the British hospital system throughout the following decade.
Early Education and Clinical Training
After relocating to Britain, Ademola initially resided at the West African Students’ Union hostel in Camden Town. She spent two years at a school in Somerset before beginning her formal nursing education in January 1938 at Guy's Hospital. By 1941, she achieved the status of a registered nurse at the same institution, later expanding her medical credentials by acquiring Central Midwives Board qualifications.
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Throughout her professional life, she held clinical positions at three primary locations. Her background included service at Guy's Hospital, where she completed her training, as well as roles at Queen Charlotte’s Maternity Hospital and New End Hospital. During her tenure, she reportedly gained a reputation among patients who referred to her by the endearment 'fairy'.
Media Representation and Later Years
In 1942, an image of Ademola was featured in a publication detailing BBC international activities. The film was distributed throughout West Africa to encourage support for the imperial war effort. Public records trace her activities into 1948, when she traveled with businessman Adeola Odutola, with her final confirmed professional activity occurring in 1949 while working in South Kensington.
Fast facts
- Born: 2 January 1916
- Origin: Nigeria
- Father: Ladapo Ademola, Alake of Abeokuta
- Arrived in Britain: 29 June 1935
- Registered as a nurse: 1941
- Film subject: Nurse Ademola (Colonial Film Unit)
- Last recorded activity: 1949
Questions readers ask
What happened to the film about Omo-Oba Adenrele Ademola?
The 16mm silent newsreel titled Nurse Ademola, produced by the Colonial Film Unit, is currently considered lost.
Where did she complete her nursing training?
She trained at Guy's Hospital, where she became a registered nurse in 1941, later gaining additional qualifications from the Central Midwives Board.
Achievements
- Held posts at Guy's Hospital, New End Hospital and Queen Charlotte's and Chelsea Hospital
