Elizade University Celebrates First Induction of Professional Nurses with 100% Success Rate, Vice-Chancellor Urges Government to Improve Work Environment

Elizade University, Ilara-Mokin, marked a major milestone as 23 newly graduated nursing science students were officially inducted as professional nurses by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria. The institution’s first-ever induction ceremony, held to honor its Bachelor of Nursing Science (B.NSc.) graduates, showcased their exceptional performance, with a 100% success rate in both the Nursing and Midwifery Professional examinations.

During the ceremony, Vice-Chancellor of Elizade University, Professor Kayode Ijadunola, praised the graduates for their brilliant academic achievements and commended the unwavering dedication of the lecturers and university management. "Your outstanding performance is a testament to the relentless commitment of our faculty and the visionary leadership of the founder, Chief Michael Ade Ojo, who has spared no resources in raising Elizade University to global standards with best practices," Ijadunola said.

However, the Vice-Chancellor voiced concern over Nigeria's "toxic work environment," which, he noted, has caused many health professionals to leave the country in search of better opportunities abroad. Professor Ijadunola called on the Federal Government to urgently address the root causes of this exodus by improving working conditions, upgrading facilities, and providing better incentives for health workers.

“No matter how many health workers we produce, it will never be enough if the work environment remains toxic and professionals are not adequately supported,” he emphasized. He also encouraged the new nurses to prioritize their career development, make their parents proud, and remain connected to their alma mater.

The Guest Speaker, Professor Omolola Irinoye, Vice-Chancellor of Achievers University, Owo, also addressed the inductees. In her keynote presentation, titled “Fulfilling Purpose and Successful Navigation of the Career Path in the Nursing Profession in the 21st Century,” she advised the new nurses to be adaptable in the face of rapid technological advancements and challenging healthcare environments. “You must continuously update your skills and competencies, stay professionally relevant, and strive for excellence as you serve humanity,” Professor Irinoye stated.

She encouraged the inductees to embrace the responsibility of being part of a noble profession, one that serves not just the physical health of individuals but also fulfills a higher purpose of service to God.

Representing the Registrar of the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria, Mrs. Adekemi Awe reiterated the importance of empathy and professionalism in nursing. “Each patient you care for has a unique story, and as multi-tasking nurses, you hold the pen to script positive chapters in their healthcare journey,” she said.

Acting Dean of the Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Dr. Omotola Dada, emphasized the pivotal role these nurses would play in achieving sustainable healthcare coverage. She noted that the rigorous training they received at Elizade University has prepared them not just for clinical excellence, but to emerge as the next generation of nurse leaders.

Head of the Nursing Science Department, Dr. Alice Ogundele, urged the graduates to embrace lifelong learning, integrity, and compassion as core values in their professional journey.

The Valedictorian, Miss Yadah Joe-Imana, speaking on behalf of her fellow inductees, expressed gratitude to their lecturers, parents, and the university for their support. She pledged that the new nurses would make their families and alma mater proud as they embark on their careers.

The inaugural induction ceremony for Elizade University’s Professional Nurses included 21 females and 2 males, all of whom achieved a 100% pass rate in both the Nursing Council and Post-basic Midwifery examinations. The event not only celebrated academic excellence but also highlighted the importance of creating a supportive and nurturing environment for health professionals to thrive in Nigeria.