Dr Ndagi Alhassan, the Registrar, Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria, has said that Nigeria must integrate digital health, telemedicine, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) into both classroom teaching and clinical practice for nurses.
Alhassan said that future nurses must be tech-savvy and proficient at leveraging data to achieve best patient outcomes.
“There is a need to invest more in postgraduate nursing education and research to produce local evidence for practice.
“This will help train more Clinical Nurse Specialists and Nurse Practitioners to address key gaps in our healthcare system,” the registrar said on Tuesday at the 60th anniversary of the Faculty of Nursing, University of Ibadan.
Alhassan challenged graduates and faculty to rise as bold advocates for health policy reform and to take up decisive leadership roles in hospitals, government, and academia.
“ Your degree is not merely a credential. It is a call to lead, to innovate, and to transform healthcare delivery,” he said.
Rep. Aderemi Oseni, representing Ido/Ibadan East Federal Constituency, said that 60 years of nursing education at the University of Ibadan was no mean feat.
Oseni said that the Faculty of Nursing, University of Ibadan, stood as a beacon of knowledge, compassion, and professionalism, not only in Nigeria but across West Africa.
“Since its inception, the faculty has produced generations of professional caregivers, educators, and health leaders whose works continue to save lives, promote wellness, and uplift communities.
“This school has carried sacred heritage with dignity and purpose. For six decades, it has stood as a beacon of knowledge and moral strength, nurturing men and women, whose hands heal, whose minds enlighten, and whose hearts serve humanity with uncommon devotion.
“ Truly, it is a legacy of skill and soul, of learning and love a light that continues to shine for generations to come,” he said.
Acknowledging the challenges before nursing, Oseni said that among them was the mass exodus of trained nurses to other countries in search of better working conditions, modern tools, and fair remuneration.
“This brain drain not only weakens our healthcare system but also threatens the wellbeing of millions of Nigerians who depend on our caregivers.
“It is a reality that demands urgent, innovative solution from improved welfare and professional recognition to the provision of modern facilities and continuous training.
“The health of our people is the wealth of our nation, and no country can prosper when its healers are weary and its caregivers are leaving in droves,” he said.
Oseni, however, reaffirmed that the health and wellness of Nigerians remain one of his top priorities.
Also, the Alaafin of Oyo , Oba Abimbola Owoade, said that 60 years of excellence in nursing education was truly a testament to the dedication and hard work of the faculty, staff, and alumni .
Owoade, who was represented by his wife, Olori Abiwumi Owoade, said that they all have contributed to the growth and development of this esteemed institution.
“Your commitment to providing quality healthcare and shaping the future of nursing is commendable.
“I am proud to note that Ibadan, the city of our beloved institution, has a rich history of academic excellence and cultural heritage.
“ Ibadan is in so many ways historically and culturally connected to Oyo, and that connection and bond will surely continue.
“ University of Ibadan, in particular, has been a beacon of knowledge and innovation, and I am honoured to be part of this celebration,” he said.
