The Provost, Abia State College of Nursing Sciences (ABSCoNS), Mrs. Amarachi Okorie, has reaffirmed the institution’s unwavering commitment to excellence and dedicated service under her leadership. She made this pledge during the capping and matriculation ceremony for students of the Basic Midwifery programme at ABSUTH Aba Campus.
Addressing the students and guests, Mrs. Okorie expressed appreciation for the support received from the state government under Governor Dr. Alex Chioma Otti. While acknowledging that there is still progress to be made, she noted that the government has already done much for the college and assured the community that more improvements are forthcoming.
“I urge the college community to remain patient. Though we are not there yet, the government has done a lot, and more is in the pipeline,” she said.
Mrs. Amarachi Okorie
To the matriculating students, the Provost emphasized the importance of character and professionalism in the nursing and midwifery fields. She warned against examination malpractice and urged students to develop empathy, dedication, and discipline—core values of the profession.
“Capping marks the beginning of your academic journey. What lies ahead is great, so make hay while the sun shines,” she said, adding that the college would not hesitate to dismiss students who violate its rules and regulations.
She also encouraged faculty members and educators to remain steadfast in their duties, noting that unity and commitment will strengthen the institution. Mrs. Okorie extended gratitude to parents for their financial, emotional, and physical support, urging them to celebrate the milestone responsibly.
In her remarks, Mrs. Onyah Odochi Miriam, Head of the Basic Midwifery Department at ABSUTH Aba Campus, urged the students to stay focused, avoid distractions, and pursue academic excellence to become competent and selfless midwives.
Other dignitaries present, including Deputy Provost (Academic), Mrs. Akunne Warriso Ngozi; Deputy Provost (Administration), Mrs. Chinyere Constance Ojike; Vice Chairman of the National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives (NANNM), Comrade Gilbert Obioma; and Mrs. Felicia Anyim of the Ministry of Health, Umuahia, offered goodwill messages emphasizing the value of education in shaping successful and impactful healthcare professionals.
Mrs. Esther Aguocha, the Director of Nursing Services at Abia State University Teaching Hospital (ABSUTH), also advised the students to embrace continuous learning and uphold the values of the profession.
In a sermon titled “Becoming a Successful Student: A Case Study of Daniel” (Daniel 1:20), guest minister Rev. Henry Nathaniel encouraged students to make God their foundation. He emphasized that divine wisdom and understanding come from a solid spiritual grounding and urged them to form positive associations that contribute to their growth.
The event drew attendees from various walks of life. The highlight of the ceremony was the symbolic capping of the students, led by the Provost, her deputies, and senior nursing professionals.
