The Vice Chancellor, Atiba University, Oyo, (AUO), Nigeria, Professor Sunday Olawale Okeniyi, has urged the thirty-one (31) Nursing Science graduates of the Institution to embrace innovation responsibly, using knowledge and technology to enhance care without eroding compassion.
In similar vein, the President and Founder of the prestigious University, Dr. James Adesokan Ojebode, charged the certified professionals of the great citadel of learning, never to compromise their integrity, stressing that, “integrity is your greatest asset as a nurse. Your certificate may open doors, but your character will keep them open. Be honest in your practice. Be disciplined in your conduct. Be respectful to patients, colleagues, and authorities. Remember always that the trust placed in you as nurses is earned daily, not by words, but by actions”.
The occasion was the Third Nursing Science Induction and Award Ceremony of the University with the annual theme of: “Nursing in a Dynamic World: Innovation, Integrity and Impact”. On the occasion, Oladipupo Esther Bukola, emerged the best student for the year and was awarded.
In his address to the Inductees, the VC said, “Your journey to this day has not been accidental. It has been shaped by discipline, sacrifice, intellectual rigour, and character formation. This ceremony confirms that you are now prepared to assume a greater responsibility—the responsibility of preserving life, restoring hope, and defending human dignity. As you take your oath and wear your uniform, remember this: your attire represents credibility and confidence. Every action you take will reflect not only on you, but on your profession, your university, and the healthcare system at large.
Let integrity guide your decisions—especially when no one is watching”, he said.
The VC further said, “Nursing, as we all know, is a dynamic profession — one that evolves continuously in response to global health challenges, technological advancements, and the ever-changing needs of our communities. The world you are entering demands not only clinical competence, but also innovation in solving complex health problems, integrity in every decision you make, and a genuine impact on the lives of those you serve.
“At Atiba University, we have deliberately positioned ourselves as a forward-looking institution committed to excellence in health sciences education. Through rigorous academic teaching, state-of-the-art simulation experiences, and meaningful clinical attachments with accredited partner hospitals, we have prepared you for the realities of modern nursing practice. Our curriculum is carefully designed to equip you with both sound scientific knowledge and the humanistic qualities essential for excellent and ethical nursing care”, he said.
Addressing the graduating Inductees as a father figure, the Founder of the University,, Dr. Ojebode, said, “Nursing is about service before self, compassion before comfort, and responsibility before recognition. It is a profession that demands the heart, the mind, and the conscience. Today, as you are inducted, you are being entrusted with something sacred—the care of human lives. That is not a small responsibility.
“Wherever you find yourself—whether in Nigeria or beyond—let your work speak of excellence, kindness, and responsibility. Let people say: “This nurse was trained with values.” That is the legacy I desire for you and for Atiba University Oyo. As a father, I charge you today to: Fear God and respect human life; remain humble, teachable, and hardworking; use your knowledge to heal, not to harm.
“Your impact will go far beyond hospital walls. You will influence families, inspire communities, and sometimes be the only voice of comfort in moments of fear and pain. Be proud representatives of Atiba University Oyo. Leave every place better than you met it. Your success will be our joy. Your integrity will be our pride”, the Founder urged, while appreciating
the Nursing & Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) for the regulation and administration of the profession.
Meanwhile, the VC used the occasion to inform the public that “Atiba University has recently received approval from the National Universities Commission (NUC) for the commencement of postgraduate programmes, including postgraduate degrees in Nursing. Others include: Postgraduate Diploma (PGD) Accounting; PGD & M.Sc. Business Administration; PGD, M.Sc. & Ph.D. Public Administration; M.Sc. Nursing; PGD, M.Sc. & Ph.D. Computer Science; MBA Business Administration; M.Sc. & Ph.D. Political Science; M.Sc. & Ph.D. International Relations; M.Sc. & Ph.D. Economics; M.Sc. & Ph.D. Sociology; M.A. & Ph.D. English
Mode of Study.
“This landmark achievement reflects the confidence of the regulatory authorities in our academic capacity, faculty strength, and infrastructural readiness. It also affirms our institutional commitment to advancing nursing education, research, and professional leadership, while providing clear pathways for career progression and lifelong learning for our graduates”, the VC said.
