Enugu State Governor, Dr. Peter Mbah, has said that the state government’s massive investment in nursing and midwifery education is aimed at creating career opportunities and enhancing the medical profession within the state.
Speaking during the maiden matriculation ceremony of the 2024 set of the Enugu State College of Nursing Sciences, Parklane and Awgu campuses, held in Enugu on Wednesday, Governor Mbah, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, said the administration’s efforts are part of a broader commitment to building a healthier society through quality education and healthcare services.
According to him, the decision to upgrade the former School of Nursing to a fully accredited, world-class College of Nursing Sciences aligns with the government’s agenda to transform Enugu into a hub for medical tourism and professional excellence.
The governor explained that the accreditation of the college by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN), alongside that of other medical institutions, followed a series of strategic actions including the invitation of accreditation teams and expansion of campuses to Nsukka and Oji River.
“These initiatives were not only necessary to certify students officially and allow them to sit for professional exams, but also to broaden access to quality nursing education across the state,” Mbah said.
He emphasized that the state’s 260 Smart Green Schools and Type-2 Healthcare Centres projects are designed to integrate digital learning with quality healthcare delivery, reduce infant and maternal mortality, and improve overall public health outcomes.
Mbah encouraged the newly matriculated students to remain committed to their chosen profession, stressing that the investments made by the government were not intended to encourage emigration but to open up local opportunities for professional growth.
Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, Dr. Yomi Jaye, noted that Enugu is among the first states to adopt the collegial nursing model, which awards multiple certifications including OND, Registered Nurse, Registered Midwife, and HND. He added that the state is developing world-class facilities at the Enugu State University of Science and Technology Teaching Hospital, the Enugu International Hospital, and other healthcare centres as part of efforts to address the “Japa” syndrome.
Acting Provost of the College, Dr. Nkechi Ani, highlighted the administration’s achievements, including upgraded infrastructure, a fully-equipped ICT centre, staff training, and international collaborations.
A student representative, Ogbodo Rita Uchenna, expressed gratitude to the governor, saying the school’s transformation has elevated their learning experience and global employability. “We now earn four certificates and have the technology to compete with students from universities across the country,” she said.
