The Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex has officially welcomed 119 new students into its College of Nursing Sciences during the institution’s matriculation ceremony held on Thursday, 21st May, 2026, at the OAUTHC Nurses’ House, Ile-Ife.
The event, which marked the fifth matriculation ceremony for the National Diploma programme of the college, signified the formal admission of the students into the nursing profession and their academic journey toward becoming qualified healthcare professionals.
In her address, the Provost, College of Nursing Sciences, Mrs. Lolade Oyedero, congratulated the matriculating students and encouraged them to embrace learning with dedication, discipline, and an open mind. She stressed the importance of resilience, hard work, and professionalism in the nursing profession, while urging the students to uphold the college’s high standards of excellence, integrity, and ethical conduct.
She further reminded the students that nursing is a noble profession that demands compassion, commitment, patience, and selfless service to humanity. According to her, the healthcare sector requires professionals who are not only academically sound but also morally upright and emotionally intelligent.
Representing the Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board, Mrs. Kemi Alayoayo also congratulated the students on their successful admission into the college. She advised them to remain focused on their studies, obey the rules and regulations guiding the institution, and strive to be worthy ambassadors of the college and the nursing profession.
In his speech, the Chief Medical Director, OAUTHC, Prof. John Okeniyi, commended the Provost and members of staff of the college for their unwavering dedication and commitment to academic excellence and professional development. He noted that the college has continued to make remarkable progress in raising standards in nursing education and healthcare training.
Prof. Okeniyi encouraged the students to remain committed to their academic pursuits, develop good character, and take advantage of the opportunities available to them throughout their training. He emphasized that the future of healthcare delivery depends greatly on the quality of professionals being trained today.
The ceremony was filled with excitement, pride, and anticipation as parents, guardians, staff members, and well-wishers gathered to witness the formal induction of the new students into the institution. The event also reflected the college’s unwavering commitment to producing competent, compassionate, and globally competitive nursing professionals.
Photo Credit: Umar Balogun