Experts in nursing education and healthcare have urged student nurses to embrace evidence-based practice, innovation, continuous learning and professional development as essential tools for shaping the future of the nursing profession.
The call was made during the 2026 Academic Day of the Nurses’ Week Programme organised by the College of Nursing Sciences, Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex (OAUTHC), Ile-Ife, in collaboration with NurseEmerge, a youth-led professional nursing organisation and mentorship platform. The summit, held at the Paediatrics Lecture Theatre on Tuesday, 28th July, 2026 was themed, “The Next Frontier: Building the Future of Nursing Through Knowledge and Innovation.”
Declaring the summit open, the Provost of the College, Mrs. Lolade Oyedero, welcomed participants and appreciated the guest speakers for honouring the institution’s invitation. She encouraged students to remain disciplined, uphold good character and pursue academic excellence, describing these as the foundation for successful nursing careers.
Delivering the first lecture, “Bridging Knowledge and Care: The Evidence-Based Nurse,” Dr. Oluwayemisi Olagunju, a Registered Nurse and Lecturer in the Department of Community/Public Health Nursing, Faculty of Nursing Sciences, Obafemi Awolowo University, described evidence-based nursing as the delivery of quality, holistic care founded on current research and scientific evidence rather than routine practice or personal opinion.
She stressed the importance of internship after graduation, noting that it provides practical experience and strengthens professional competence. Dr. Olagunju encouraged students to cultivate a reading culture by reviewing research articles regularly, questioning outdated practices, participating in research and applying clinical guidelines in patient care.
Speaking on “HND to BNSc: Bridging the Gap, Career Prospects and the Future of Nursing Education in Nigeria,” Dr. Abiola Komolafe, a Lecturer in the Department of Maternal/Child Health Nursing, Faculty of Nursing Sciences, Obafemi Awolowo University, encouraged students to begin planning for a Bachelor of Nursing Science (BNSc) degree after completing their Higher National Diploma (HND).
She explained that while clinical competence is essential, higher academic qualifications often determine leadership opportunities, policy involvement and career advancement. According to her, the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria’s transition to degree-linked Colleges of Nursing Sciences has expanded opportunities for academic progression and global relevance. She highlighted career prospects in clinical specialisation, public health, research, academia, healthcare administration, entrepreneurship and international practice, urging students not to allow their HND qualification to limit their aspirations.
The third lecture, “Nursing Nigeria Forward: Health for All,” was delivered by Dr. Olaleye Onitiju, Deputy Director and Medical Laboratory Scientist at OAUTHC. He described health as a fundamental human right and said achieving “Health for All” requires equitable access to affordable, quality healthcare without financial hardship.
Dr. Onitiju noted that nurses remain the backbone of Nigeria’s healthcare system but identified challenges such as manpower shortages, brain drain, poor remuneration, inadequate infrastructure and limited career progression. He called for increased healthcare funding, improved working conditions, stronger nursing regulations, expanded employment opportunities and greater investment in research and innovation to advance Universal Health Coverage.
In the final lecture, “The Nursing Blueprint: A Guide to Career Growth, Leadership and Professional Excellence,” the Founder of NurseEmerge, Nurse Precious Taiwo, encouraged students to develop a clear vision for their careers and remain focused despite challenges.
He emphasised that professional growth is intentional and urged aspiring nurses to invest in continuous learning, pursue specialised areas of practice and maintain the highest standards of integrity and professionalism. According to him, “Your reputation is your greatest CV,” adding that while a nursing licence qualifies one to practise, the choices made throughout a career determine the legacy a nurse leaves behind.
The summit concluded with an interactive question-and-answer session, during which students actively engaged the speakers and demonstrated a strong understanding of the issues discussed. The programme reinforced the College’s commitment to producing competent, innovative and globally competitive nursing professionals equipped to meet the evolving healthcare needs of society.