McPherson University Inducts 64 Nursing Graduates, Calls for Health Sector Reforms

McPherson University recently held a significant induction ceremony for 64 new nursing graduates, marking a notable milestone in the institution's commitment to healthcare education.

The Registrar and Secretary General of the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN), Alhaji Ndagi Alhassan, led the induction ceremony, emphasizing the importance of professional standards in nursing.

The outstanding performance in the recent General Nursing Examination, showcasing its rising academic excellence and dedication to producing high-quality nursing professionals.

The university's commitment to healthcare education is evident in its rigorous training programs, which equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in the nursing profession.

During the ceremony, experts called for urgent health sector reforms, highlighting the need for improved working conditions and compensation for nurses. The Vice-Chancellor of McPherson University, Prof. Francis Igbasan, specifically emphasized the importance of introducing a special salary scale for nurses to address the increasing migration of nurses from Nigeria. According to him, over 57,000 nurses left the country in five years, with nearly 15,500 more following in 2024 alone.

Guest speaker Prof. Christiana Olaruwaju Sowunmi, Dean of the School of Nursing at Babcock University, delivered a thought-provoking keynote address, urging the inductees to embrace their roles as nation builders. She highlighted the multifaceted contributions of nurses to national development, including public health, education, and emergency response. Prof. Sowunmi emphasized the importance of integrating nurses into national development strategies, particularly in achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) .

The induction ceremony marked a significant moment for the graduates, who were encouraged to uphold professional standards, pursue continuous learning, and demonstrate empathy and critical thinking in their practice. With the right tools and support, these new nursing professionals are poised to make a meaningful impact in the healthcare sector.