Nigerian Nurse Honoured with UK National Bravery Award for Saving Patient from Hospital Fire
A Nigerian nurse, Emmanuel Ndubuisi, has received a national bravery award in the United Kingdom after saving the life of a patient who accidentally set herself on fire while attempting to use an electronic cigarette in a hospital bed.
According to The Mirror, the incident occurred in August 2025 at Sunderland Royal Hospital when a female patient in her 50s reportedly tried to vape while connected to an oxygen supply. The combination ignited a fire that engulfed her head and posed a serious threat to the hospital ward.
Emmanuel acted swiftly by disconnecting the patient’s oxygen supply and using a fire extinguisher to put out the flames before they could spread further. His prompt intervention prevented what could have become a major fire and helped protect other patients and hospital staff.
The patient sustained burns to her head and received medical treatment but avoided more severe injuries due to the nurse’s quick response. Photographs taken after the incident reportedly showed that the intense heat melted the oxygen mask and tubing and scorched the floor of the hospital room.
In recognition of his courage, professionalism and presence of mind during the emergency, Emmanuel Ndubuisi was presented with a national bravery award in the United Kingdom, honouring his actions in preventing a potentially devastating incident and saving a patient’s life.
