BY MICHAEL IKEOGWU-WARRI
LILY College of Nursing Sciences, Warri, Delta State, has officially conducted its maiden matriculation and capping ceremony for 100 nursing and 35 midwifery students.
The historic ceremony held in Effurun, Uvwie Local Government Area of Delta State. marked the transition into full-fledged student nurses and midwives recognized by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria.
The students lit candles symbolizing their call to serve humanity with care and integrity, after completing their foundational six-month training.
The event also featured oath-taking and symbolic capping, with their Provost and senior nursing leaders presenting the new intakes to society.
Chairman of the Day and Board Chairman of Lily Hospitals, Dr. Sangu Delle, who delivered the keynote address, urged the students to live intentionally, model excellence, and embrace the identity of global healthcare professionals.
“Today, we present to you future health leaders. These young people are not just being trained for local impact—they are being prepared to meet global healthcare demands.
You don’t need permission to be excellent,” Dr. Delle declared.
He said, “Build the habits of a global nurse from today. Speak the language, act the part, and carry yourself with dignity because the world is watching.”
Citing the example of Kenyan Olympic runner Faith Kipyegon, he challenged the students to go beyond competing with classmates and aim to break personal limits daily.
“Live your life not just to set records, but to break them. Become a global brand. The world needs 1,000s of impactful nurses.”
The lecture also called for professionalism in and outside the clinic. “Let the only hearts you touch be through medical care,” he advised, referencing global studies that stress the need for ethical standards in nursing.
Addressing the global brain drain debate, Dr. Delle reframed the narrative, saying, “Nigeria should not fight talent migration. Instead, we should train nurses not just for Nigeria, but for the world. Let’s export our human capital not just oil.”
The Registrar and Chief Executive Officer of the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria, represented by a senior official Mr. Amaechi Francis, also addressed the students.
He said, “You have passed your PTS exams and are now officially listed in our student register,” h
He urged consistency in records and strict adherence to ethics as students prepare for professional certification.
Provost of the College, Mr. Felix, acknowledged the accreditation milestone and expressed gratitude to staff, parents, and stakeholders for their sacrifices.
“We’re proud to be the third private College of Nursing in Delta State, and this is just the beginning. We will grow into a National and Higher National Diploma-awarding institution.”
The audience was reminded of Florence Nightingale’s legacy, with a symbolic bestowal of the Nightingale torch to the students. “You are not just nurses in training,” said one speaker. “You are healers. You are light-bringers. The future of Africa’s healthcare will not be imported it will be homegrown, and you are the proof.”
As the event drew to a close, students recited their matriculation oath with right hands raised, pledging to uphold the discipline and ethics of the profession, promote the college’s image, and serve with compassion.
