The Cross River State Government has restated its commitment to strengthen advocacy, amplify nurses’ voices in governance, and accelerate infrastructure development at the College of Nursing Science, Ogoja.
Speaking at the college’s 2nd Joint matriculation and capping ceremony, Permanent Secretary of the State Ministry of Health, Dr. Jonah Offor, who represented the Honorable Commissioner for Health, Elder Dr Henry Egbe said the institution would continue to fulfill its mandate with sustained government backing. “The college will continue to serve its purpose with government support,” he said.
Chairman of the occasion, Hon. Uko Inaku, urged nurses to uphold the ethical values that define the profession and charged students to embrace discipline and good conduct in their studies. He also donated to the construction of the proposed two-storey administrative building for the college.
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| Dr. Coco-Bassey Esu |
In his address, the Special Assistant to the Governor on Nursing, Dr. Coco-Bassey Esu, said the theme “Political Voice, a Panacea for Nursing Education” marked a turning point for nursing in Cross River State.
He thanked Governor Bassey Otu for giving nursing direct representation in government through the appointments of a Special Assistant on Nursing and Special Adviser on Nursing Education. According to him, this ensures nursing colleges are now considered in decisions on funding, accreditation, and infrastructure.
Dr. Esu said the investment in Ogoja College of Nursing Science was a strategic step toward producing competent, ethical nurses to strengthen primary healthcare and reduce maternal and child mortality. He urged the matriculating students to wear their caps with pride, learn diligently, and uphold the ethics of the profession.
Earlier, Provost of the College, Dr. Mrs. Ohora Enyieko said Governor Otu was the only governor in Nigeria to appoint two nurses into top advisory roles, giving nursing education the political backing it needed.
Chairman of the Governing Council, Dr. Mrs. Teresa A. Osaji, assured students that the government had provided a favorable learning environment and urged them to uphold professional standards.
Goodwill messages came from the Executive Chairman of Ogoja LGA, Hon. Christopher Agbe, represented by his Vice Chairman; Cross River State Director of Nursing Services, Mrs. Roseline Obojor; CRS NANNM Chairperson, Comrd. Josephine Bassey; and community leaders. They praised the government’s investment and called on students to remain disciplined.
The event was described by speakers as the start of “a new era for nursing in Cross River State,” with the College of Nursing Science, Ogoja, positioned to become a center of excellence.
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