An oncology nurse specialist and head of nursing at Ghana’s National Radiotherapy Oncology and Nuclear Medicine Centre has been named the winner of the Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award 2025. Naomi Oyoe Ohene Oti received the prestigious USD 250,000 prize during a grand ceremony held in Dubai, UAE.
The award was presented by UAE Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence Sheikh Nahyan bin Mabarak Al Nahyan, joined by leaders of Aster DM Healthcare including Founder Chairman Dr. Azad Moopen and Group CEO Alisha Moopen.
Now on its fourth year, the global award—launched by Aster DM Healthcare—aims to recognize exceptional nurses worldwide for their work in leadership, research, innovation, and community service. This year, the competition saw a record-breaking 100,000 entries from 199 countries.
Naomi, a tireless advocate for equity in cancer care, has led transformative efforts in Ghana’s healthcare system. She developed specialized oncology nursing programs, helped design the country’s postgraduate curriculum, and trained more than 70 nurse specialists. Her advocacy extends beyond Ghana, mentoring over 40 African nurses and shaping cancer care standards across the continent.
“To be honoured with the Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award is deeply humbling,” said Naomi. “This recognition is not mine alone – it belongs to every nurse across Ghana, Africa, and the world who leads with resilience, compassion, and courage.”
Dr. Moopen praised Naomi’s groundbreaking leadership, saying she “redefined what it means to be a nurse – not just as a caregiver but as an innovator, leader, and changemaker.”
The event also featured a special message from World Health Organization Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, commending all the finalists and Aster’s dedication to the nursing profession.
Nine other finalists were also recognized for their impact, including nurses from the UAE, USA, Switzerland, Papua New Guinea, India, Malaysia, Hong Kong, and Kenya. Finalists were chosen after a rigorous global evaluation led by Ernst & Young and a distinguished jury panel.
