The College of Nursing Sciences, Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex (OAUTHC), Ile-Ife, recently held a momentous valedictory lecture and celebration in honour of its pioneering Provost, Dr. Aderonke Bosede Awoseemo, who bowed out of active service after years of exceptional leadership, selfless service, and transformative impact.
Themed “Dissolved the Frost, Melted the Ice and Water Flows,”the event took place on June 26 and 27, 2025, at the Florence Nightingale Hall—fondly known as “The Nurses’ House.” It was a double celebration: marking Dr. Awoseemo’s retirement and her 60th birthday. The poetic theme perfectly captured her legacy, a flowing stream of progress that has shaped mindsets, redefined pedagogy, and strengthened the mission of nursing education at the institution.
The two-day celebration brought together hospital management, staff, students, colleagues, family members, and well-wishers, all united in celebrating a woman whose contributions to nursing education and leadership are deeply etched in the history of the OAUTHC.
In her welcome address, Acting Provost Mrs. Lolade Oyedero hailed her predecessor as a visionary leader and trailblazer whose solid foundation would be preserved and further strengthened. She thanked God for guiding Dr. Awoseemo through her illustrious career and praised her unwavering dedication to excellence.
Delivering the valedictory keynote lecture, titled after the event’s theme, Prof. Timothy Oladosu, a former student and mentee, described the honouree as a woman of action and compassion whose influence broke barriers and set positive change in motion.
In his remarks, the Chief Medical Director, Prof. John Okeniyi, applauded Dr. Awoseemo for her meritorious service and enduring legacy. He acknowledged the grace of God that sustained her career and expressed heartfelt gratitude on behalf of the institution. Echoing this sentiment, the Chairman of the occasion, Prof. Adeleke Ojo, urged students to embrace nursing as a noble calling and praised the celebrant’s character and integrity.
Adding a personal touch, the Chairman of the Parent-Tutors Forum, Mr. Esanju Ayodele, lauded Dr. Awoseemo as a democratic leader, transparent administrator, and compassionate counsellor. He highlighted tangible achievements from her tenure, including the fumigation of hostels on both campuses, the procurement of new photocopiers, and infrastructural improvements.
In her moving farewell speech, Dr Awoseemo gave glory to God for His guidance and expressed heartfelt appreciation to the hospital management, colleagues, students, and family members who supported her journey. The celebration closed with a vote of thanks from Mrs. Oyedero, who appreciated all dignitaries and guests for honouring an icon whose legacy will continue to inspire generations in the College of Nursing Sciences.
