Grace Atinuke Oyelude is a retired Nigerian nurse, midwife, and hospital administrator. In 1957, she became the first Miss Nigeria. Known for her beauty and intelligence, she used her platform to excel in healthcare and inspire women across generations.
| Common Name | Grace Oyelude |
| Full Name | Grace Atinuke Oyelude |
| Age | 93 years old (as of 2024) |
| Date of Birth | November 16, 1931 |
| Gender | Female |
| Occupation | Retired Nurse, Midwife, Hospital Administrator |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Religion | Christianity |
| Ethnicity | Yoruba |
| State of Origin | Kogi |
| Nationality | Nigerian |
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Grace Oyelude Biography
Grace Atinuke Oyelude was born on November 16, 1931, in Sabon Gari, Kano, Nigeria, to James Adeleye Oyelude and Martha Jasmine Dantu. Hailing from Isanlu in Kogi State, Grace spent her early years in Northern Nigeria. She became a symbol of beauty and intelligence after winning the first-ever Miss Nigeria pageant in 1957, a historic achievement that paved the way for Nigerian women in beauty, education, and leadership.
Grace Oyelude Educational Background
Grace Oyelude completed her primary and secondary education in Kano between 1940 and 1952. She later moved to England, using her Miss Nigeria prize money to enroll in the School of Nursing, Ashford, Kent. By 1961, she was a registered nurse and earned a midwifery qualification from St. Thomas’ Hospital, London, in 1962. In 1971, she obtained a Nursing and Hospital Administration Diploma from the Royal College of Nursing, England. Grace also earned another diploma from the Ghana Institute of Management and Personnel Administration, showcasing her dedication to professional growth.
Grace Oyelude Career
After her reign as Miss Nigeria, Grace Oyelude pursued an impactful nursing career. She worked at prestigious hospitals in the UK, including Paddington General Hospital. Upon returning to Nigeria, she served as a nursing sister at Kaduna General Hospital (1964-1965). She later became the senior nursing sister-in-charge at Kaduna Nursing Home (now Barau Dike Specialist Hospital).
Grace Oyelude led a medical team preparing hospitals to care for casualties during the Nigerian Civil War. She later joined the Institute of Health at Ahmadu Bello University, becoming a senior matron and eventually Director of Nursing Services at the university’s teaching hospital. Grace retired in 1985 but remained active as an external examiner for the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria and chaired the Kwara State Health Management Board from 1980 to 1983.
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Grace Oyelude Awards
Grace Oyelude has been recognized for her contributions to healthcare and women’s empowerment. In 2001, the West African College of Nursing honored her as their “Florence Nightingale of the 20th Century.” In 2015, she received a brand-new Peugeot car from the Miss Nigeria Organization as a tribute to her legacy.
Grace Oyelude Age
Grace Oyelude was born on November 16, 1931, she is 93 years old as of 2024.
Grace Oyelude’s Personal Life
Grace Oyelude holds the chieftaincy titles of Iyaolu of Isanlu and Iyalode of Okunland, reflecting her esteemed status in her community. She is a proud grandmother and enjoys celebrating her legacy with her family.
Grace Oyelude Husband
Grace Oyelude’s personal life, particularly details about her husband, remains private and is rarely mentioned in public records. However, her life was deeply influenced by her remarkable career and her dedication to nursing, community service, and education in Nigeria. Her achievements continue to inspire many across generations.
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Grace Oyelude Children
Grace Oyelude has children and many grandchildren, who are a source of pride and joy in her life.
Grace Oyelude Net Worth
Grace Atinuke Oyelude’s exact net worth is not publicly available. However, her achievements as Nigeria’s first Miss Nigeria in 1957, her impactful career as a nurse, and her dedication to public service highlight her as a highly influential figure. Her work in healthcare and community development cements her lasting legacy in Nigeria.
Grace Oyelude Social Media Handles
Grace Atinuke Oyelude does not maintain personal social media accounts. However, organizations such as the Miss Nigeria Organization celebrate her legacy and achievements, which honors her role as the first-ever Miss Nigeria. You can learn more about her contributions on the Miss Nigeria Organization’s website or their Instagram handle:
- Instagram: @missnigeriaorg
- Website: www.missnigeria.ng.