From Aloysius Attah, Onitsha
Apex College of Nursing Sciences, Igbo-Ukwu (ACONSI), Anambra State is set to make a monumental debut in Nigeria’s healthcare education sector with its Official Opening and First Matriculation/Capping Ceremony by the end of this month.
This landmark event will take place at the college’s temporary site in Igbo-Ukwu, Anambra State, heralding a new era in the training of skilled healthcare professionals to address the global nursing shortage.
The event will be graced by prominent dignitaries, including Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, the Executive Governor of Anambra State , who will serve as the Special Guest of Honour.
The ceremony will be chaired by Chukwudi Illoh, the pioneer Managing Director of Nigerian Agip CPFA Limited, with His Royal Highness, Igwe Alex Azike, as the Royal Father of the Day .
The Chief Host will be the Founder and Visitor of ACONSI, Professor Uchenna Nwosu, an American-trained medical doctor and Group Medical Director of Apex Healthcare System.
Speaking ahead of the event, Chief Benchika Uzoagu, Chairman of the Planning Committee , expressed immense pride in the establishment of ACONSI.
“This is more than just an event; it’s a milestone in Nigeria’s healthcare journey. The matriculation ceremony signifies the beginning of a transformative era for our students and underscores our vision of reshaping healthcare education,” he stated.
Highlighting the motivation behind the college’s establishment, Prof. Uchenna Nwosu emphasized the urgent need to address the global nursing shortage and mitigate the impact of brain drain on Nigeria’s healthcare sector.
“ACONSI is committed to producing highly skilled and globally competitive nursing professionals. Our mission is to prepare nurses who will not only serve Nigeria but excel on international platforms. We see our students as pioneers in solving critical healthcare challenges,” he said.
The Provost of the college,Pastor Promise Ekeagba, a Fellow of the African Institute of Public Health assured stakeholders of the institution’s unwavering commitment to excellence.
A key highlight of the ceremony will be the symbolic capping of the pioneer students, marking their formal induction into the noble nursing profession.