The Vice Chancellor of Atiba University, Oyo (AUO), Professor Sunday Olawale Okeniyi, has urged the institution’s 31 newly certified Nursing Science graduates to embrace innovation responsibly, emphasizing the importance of using knowledge and technology to enhance patient care without compromising compassion.
Addressing the graduates at the third Nursing Science induction and award ceremony of the university, which carried the theme “Nursing in a Dynamic World: Innovation, Integrity and Impact”, Professor Okeniyi highlighted the need for ethical conduct and professional excellence.
“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. Let integrity guide your decisions, especially when no one is watching,” he said.
The Vice Chancellor also stressed that nursing is a dynamic profession, constantly evolving in response to global health challenges and technological advancements. He urged the inductees to combine clinical competence with innovative solutions to complex health problems, noting that their actions reflect not only on themselves but also on their profession, the university, and the broader healthcare system.
Speaking at the event, the Founder and President of Atiba University, Dr. James Adesokan Ojebode, reminded the graduates that integrity is their greatest professional asset. “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. The trust placed in you as nurses is earned daily, not by words, but by actions,” he said.
Dr. Ojebode described nursing as a profession that demands service before self, compassion before comfort, and responsibility before recognition. He urged the graduates to let their work speak of excellence, kindness, and responsibility, leaving every place better than they found it.
The ceremony also saw Oladipupo Esther Bukola emerge as the best student of the year, receiving an award in recognition of her academic excellence.
During the induction, Professor Okeniyi announced that Atiba University had recently received approval from the National Universities Commission (NUC) to commence postgraduate programmes, including Nursing, Business Administration, Public Administration, Computer Science, Political Science, International Relations, Economics, Sociology, and English. He described the development as a milestone reflecting the university’s commitment to advancing health sciences education, research, and professional leadership.
The Vice Chancellor reiterated the university’s vision to equip students with both sound scientific knowledge and humanistic qualities essential for ethical and effective nursing care, while Dr. Ojebode praised the Nursing & Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) for its role in regulating the profession.
“Your impact will extend far beyond hospital walls. You will influence families, inspire communities, and sometimes be the only voice of comfort in moments of fear and pain. Let integrity, innovation, and compassion guide you,” the Founder added.
