…Cross River College of Nursing Sciences Itigidi Holds 4th Matriculation Ceremony
The Cross River State College of Nursing Sciences, Itigidi, celebrated its 4th Matriculation and Capping Ceremony on Friday, with the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Henry Egbe Ayuk, representing Governor Bassey Otu as the special guest. Dr. Ayuk congratulated the newly admitted students, urging them to take their studies seriously and to embrace the responsibility that comes with a career in healthcare. He emphasized that nursing is a profession rooted in service, requiring a lifelong commitment to learning and care for others THE PARADISE has confirmed.
Dr. Ayuk’s message reinforced the state government’s dedication to healthcare and education, stressing the importance of the College of Nursing Sciences, Itigidi, in producing the next generation of skilled healthcare professionals. “The Governor’s vision for education and healthcare is clear—Cross River State must continue to lead in training professionals who will serve not only locally but also nationally,” he said.
The ceremony also witnessed Hon. Cyril James Omini, Member representing Yakurr 1 State Constituency at the Tenth Cross River State House of Assembly, announce scholarships for 50 students—20 Nursing students and 20 Midwifery students. His generous support, coupled with Rev. Mrs. Eyoanwan Otu’s sponsorship, was widely appreciated as a significant contribution toward the academic and professional growth of the students.
In her address, Mrs. Uduak Spencer Efem, Special Adviser on Nursing Education to Governor Bassey Otu, highlighted that nursing is more than just a profession—it is a calling. She emphasized the importance of service, empathy and dedication in the nursing field, urging students to develop these qualities during their training. “Nursing is a calling. It’s not easy to serve someone you don’t know, especially when they are vulnerable. This profession requires compassion as well as empathy and our students must develop this sense of duty before they complete their training,” Mrs. Efem said. While extolling the virtues of the governor Bassey Otu as pragmatic, Efem also described the wife of the governor as the ‘Florence Nightingale of our time’. She urged students to resist the temptation of seeking opportunities abroad, which has become a growing trend in the profession.
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Dr. Margaret Mombel Opiah, Chair of the Governing Council, echoed the governor’s remarks, congratulating the students and reminding them of the discipline required to excel in their studies. She expressed gratitude to Rev. Mrs. Eyoanwan Otu, wife of the Governor, for sponsoring 10 students, covering their entire academic journey. Dr. Opiah encouraged other stakeholders to follow this example and invest in the future of healthcare through education.
Provost of the College, Mrs. Ruth Ita Ebong, commended the students for their hard work and dedication to the program. She reassured them of the institution’s commitment to providing both academic and moral guidance throughout their studies, emphasizing the importance of discipline and perseverance.
The keynote lecture was delivered by Dr. Enyieko Ohora Osim, Pioneer Provost of the College of Nursing Sciences, Ogoja. Dr. Osim explored the evolving relationship between nursing and politics, urging the future healthcare leaders to be involved in shaping policies that affect the healthcare sector. She called for active participation from nursing professionals in the political sphere to ensure better resource allocation and healthcare policy improvements.
The event, attended by dignitaries including Obol Eteng, Head of Service, concluded with a call to the matriculants to uphold the dignity of the nursing profession and excel in their pursuit of becoming future healthcare leaders.
