The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Calabar (UniCal), Prof. Offiong Offiong, has described nursing as more than a profession, saying it is a call to serve humanity with empathy, compassion and accountability.
Offiong made the remark at the university’s 12th induction and oath-taking ceremony for Nursing Science graduands held in Calabar. He emphasised the importance of professional responsibility and unwavering dedication to healthcare service delivery standards.
Represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Prof. Ekaette Enang, the Vice-Chancellor noted that compassion lies at the heart of nursing practice and requires resilience, integrity and commitment in all aspects of service.
According to him, nurses are present in some of the most vulnerable moments in people’s lives, providing not only medical care but also emotional support and reassurance.
“Nurses do more than administer medication; they listen, comfort, reassure and stand beside patients in moments of fear and pain, becoming pillars of strength within families and communities,” he said.
He urged the inductees to cultivate patience, emotional strength and a deep sense of responsibility for human life, stressing that the profession demands dedication even when efforts go unrecognised.
Offiong added that nursing service is measured not just by tasks completed but by lives impacted and dignity preserved. He also commended the academic staff and parents for their support throughout the students’ training.
In his remarks, the Provost of the College of Medical Sciences, Prof. Ngim Ngim, congratulated the graduands on completing their rigorous training and encouraged them to uphold ethical standards and practise with compassion.
The Dean of the Faculty of Allied Medical Sciences, Prof. Nelson Osuchukwu, also advised the new nurses to maintain strong work ethics and professional values throughout their careers.
The Registrar of the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria, Dr Alhassan Ndagi, represented by Dr Emmanuel Udoncra, urged the inductees to embrace emerging trends in healthcare while remaining respectful and professional in their practice.