Ogun State Nurses Make History: College Leaders and Alumni Earn PhDs in Nursing at Babcock University

In a landmark academic moment for the nursing profession in Nigeria, a powerful team of nurse leaders  many rooted in the Ogun State College of Nursing  were hooded today  24th of July 2025, with Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degrees in Nursing at the prestigious Babcock University.

This is not just an academic feat; it is a bold statement a strategic signal to healthcare leadership in Nigeria and beyond: the time has come to shift focus and investment towards nursing.

 Leading the Way: Ogun’s Ag.Director of Nursing Services

At the forefront of this celebration is Dr. Aminu S.A., the Director of Nursing Services (DNS) in Ogun State, a key policymaker and nursing advocate. As a member of the Governing Board of the Ogun State College of Nursing and an alumnus of the college, her academic and administrative journey reinforces a vital truth: nursing leadership must be grounded in scholarship to effectively reform health systems.

Her hooding today serves as a rallying point  showing that the nursing profession is no longer satisfied with standing at the periphery of healthcare leadership. It is stepping forward, confidently and competently.

Academic Giants from Ogun College of Nursing

Also joining the ranks of PhD holders are:

• Dr. Awonuga : Deputy Provost (Administration), Ogun State College of Nursing
• Dr. B.B. Howells : Deputy Provost (Academics), Ogun State College of Nursing

Both are intellectual powerhouses whose leadership has shaped one of Nigeria’s most progressive nursing institutions. Their doctorates are symbolic of a deeper transformation underway in nursing education where those leading classrooms and policies now possess the highest academic credentials to match their vision.

Also from the Ogun state College of Nursing Ilaro, 

• Dr. Ogunleye ,  Director of Nursing
• Dr. Ojumu ,  Seasoned Lecturer

These two figures have helped strengthen the academic and professional output of the Ilaro campus, further expanding the college’s statewide impact.

• Dr. Omitogun,Dr. Bankole  proud alumni of Ogun State College of Nursing, stood tall among the hooded scholars, symbolizing the strength of the college’s alumni network

A Strategic Wake-Up Call for Healthcare Leadership

This collective accomplishment is more than a celebration  it is a strategic wake-up call to the healthcare leadership at all levels:

The nursing profession is no longer just the backbone of care , it is emerging as the brain trust of healthcare transformation.

Policymakers, hospital administrators, and development partners must begin to see nurses not only as caregivers but as thought leaders, health advocates, and policy shapers.

This moment demands a shift  in funding, respect, representation, and opportunity for nurses, particularly those who are academically equipped to sit at the table of reform.

 Global Call and a National Responsibility

With the caliber of minds emerging from Ogun State College of Nursing, it is time for government at all levels, global partners, and philanthropic organizations to invest strategically in the institution.

Ogun State is now fast becoming one of the leading producers of PhD holders in nursing across Nigeria. It is worthy of note that other than the afore mentioned Drs, Dr Ademola Shafii, the Hod Nursing department, Dr Omirin, The Director Of School of psychiatric nursing, NPH Aro, Abeokuta, Dr opaleye, A seasoned lecturer at School of psychiatric nursing NPH Aro Abeokuta, all badged their PhD in nursing Today Following their induction as fellows of the West Africa postgraduate college of nurses and Midwives. This reality should provoke a serious reconsideration of where resources go when planning for healthcare workforce development.

Why send resources only to hospitals when you can strengthen the very institutions producing the minds that run them?

 Ogun State College of Nursing Shines Bright

This PhD hooding is both a reward and a prophecy. The Ogun State College of Nursing is no longer just a training ground it is a leadership hub. With DNS, Deputy Provosts, Directors, Lecturers, and Alumni now holding doctoral degrees, the college is fortified more than ever to raise a new generation of thinkers, leaders, and visionaries in the nursing profession.

Let today mark the beginning of a greater national and international recognition for the college and for the profession it so excellently serves.

To the newly crowned Doctors of Philosophy: You are the light. Keep shining.
To the nursing communi

ty: Keep rising.
To Nigeria and the world: Invest in nursing. Invest in Ogun. Invest in the future.