UI Nursing at 60: DVC Describes Faculty’s Legacy as Cornerstone of Nigeria’s Healthcare History

The Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration) of the University of Ibadan, Professor Peter O. Olapegba, FNPA, fspsp, has described the University’s Nursing programme as a cornerstone in Nigeria’s healthcare evolution, affirming that its story is inseparable from the nation’s medical history.

Representing the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Kayode O. Adebowale, mni, FAS, fspsp, at the 60th anniversary celebration of the Faculty of Nursing, Professor Olapegba stated that the vision established six decades ago was not merely to train nurses but to nurture leaders, innovators, and standard-bearers of patient care in Nigeria.

He lauded the Faculty for its enduring contributions to healthcare delivery and policy, urging it to further strengthen its global influence through evidence-based research, interdisciplinary collaborations, and leadership development.

Representing the Alaafin of Oyo, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade, the Queen, Ayaaba Abiwumi Olajumoke Owoade, RN, commended the Faculty for sustaining a legacy of excellence. She noted that the anniversary theme, “Honouring the Past, Shaping the Future,” aptly reflected the need to celebrate past achievements while preparing for new challenges in healthcare and nursing education.

The Registrar/CEO of the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN), Dr. Ndagi Alhassan, also congratulated the Faculty, describing its 60-year journey as a story of academic leadership and professional integrity. He noted that UI pioneered academic nursing education in Nigeria, setting benchmarks in ethics, practice, and research.

Delivering the keynote address, Professor Henry Abayomi Akinola, an alumnus, likened the Nursing programme’s growth to a “mustard seed that has blossomed into a giant tree” with alumni impacting healthcare globally. He urged graduates to continue supporting their alma mater in preserving its tradition of excellence.

The event also featured goodwill messages from Honourable (Engr.) Aderemi Oseni, FNSE, Member of the House of Representatives for Ibadan East/Ido Federal Constituency, who described the Faculty as a “beacon of knowledge, compassion, and professionalism” in Nigeria and West Africa.

In her address, the Dean, Professor Prisca Adejumo, celebrated the Faculty’s milestones in research, leadership, and national healthcare service. She expressed appreciation to staff, alumni, and partners for their commitment and contributions.

Two members of the pioneering class, Chief Mrs. Florence Fola Bammeke and Mrs. Rita Idowu A. Ajayi, both retired senior administrators of the University College Hospital Nursing School, were specially honoured for their foundational roles in shaping nursing education at UI.