Nigerian nurses and midwives have been recommended to enhance their academic degrees to at least a PhD level.
During Gregory University Uturu’s first nursing induction ceremony for its pioneer group of 21 nurses and midwives, Acting Registrar/CEO of the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria, Ndagi Alhassan, gave this advice on Wednesday. He said, “I encourage you to take advantage of every chance to obtain advanced nursing degrees, as there are numerous opportunities for nurses with these credentials in different nursing departments and nursing institutions, both in Nigeria and overseas.”
Speaking on behalf of the National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives in Owerri, Imo State, Mrs. Eleanor Nwaka Ahassan stated, “The Bachelor of Nursing Science program is a top-tier educational program that aims to produce nurses with the clinical expertise, professional intelligence, and knowledge necessary to provide the public with safe and effective healthcare.
By equipping nurses with the skills to make accurate nursing diagnoses, create suitable nursing care plans, implement them effectively, and assess outcomes in a comprehensive and political manner, the Bachelor of Nursing Science degree program combines academic and professional training, aiming to enhance the quality of nursing services in Nigeria.
With effect from January 2017, the council began running the internship program for Bachelor of Nursing Science graduates. He cautioned, “Be open to learning from experienced colleagues in clinical areas, accept corrections, enhance and positively adjust where needed, and avoid costly mistakes.”
“As you begin your internship, please make every effort to apply the knowledge and skills you acquired throughout training. Respect the counsel of more seasoned colleagues, act as excellent representatives of the nursing profession, and follow the rules that regulate the field.
Speaking at the event, the Founder of Gregory University Uturu (GUU), Prof. Greg Ibe, on behalf of the Deputy Vice Chancellor of Administration, Prof. Uwaoma Uche, praised the inductees’ “trust, confidence, and determination to pursue a career” in the nursing profession and thanked the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria for its support and guidance, stating that its standards and regulations have given our program the highest standards possible.
Also speaking at the event, the University Chancellor, Gregory Ibe Jr., remarked that, “As with all worthwhile pursuits, reaching this milestone required resilience, faith, and courage. Choosing to start your professional journey here is a testament to your remarkable bravery and belief in your path.”
In her address, the Pro-Chancellor, Prof. Augustine Uwakwe, commended the inductees, stating, “Each of you has put in tremendous effort to achieve this milestone, successfully managing the intense academic and clinical demands of your training while also making significant personal sacrifices throughout the journey.”
In her speech, the Pro-Chancellor, Prof. Augustine Uwakwe, advised the inductees, “Each one of you has worked incredibly hard to reach this milestone, navigating the rigorous demands of your studies and clinical practice, while balancing personal sacrifices along the way.
You have demonstrated strength, empathy, and a deep, strong dedication to helping others. These qualities are essential to the nursing profession and will be vital as you begin this next phase of your career.
As you transition into your roles as nurses, we urge you to adhere to the core values you’ve gained during your training—dignity, respect, and a commitment to continuous learning,” he stated. “The healthcare field is constantly evolving, and as nurses, you will be leading many of these transformations. Welcome ongoing professional growth, stand up for your patients, and actively contribute to the progress of the nursing profession.”
Deputy Vice Chancellor Academics Prof. Regina Ogali, speaking on behalf of Vice Chancellor Prof. Celestina Njoku, advised the inductees during her speech, “Remember that as you are being inducted today as Professional Registered Nurses, you are entering a profession that requires not only your knowledge and skill but also your compassion, integrity, and humility.”
“The world needs medical experts who can listen and read the body language of every ailment, in addition to being competent and sympathetic. Accept this duty with humility and dedication.
