From April 6 to 13, 2025, the University of Lagos (UNILAG) hosted the 28th Annual General Assembly of the Nigerian Universities Nursing Students’ Association (NUNSA). This landmark event brought together hundreds of nursing students from across Nigeria, marking the first time in 28 years that the assembly was held in Lagos State.
Under the theme “Empowering Nurses: A Catalyst for Sustainable Healthcare in Africa,” the assembly featured a series of activities aimed at enhancing nursing education, leadership, and innovation. The opening ceremony was graced by notable dignitaries and erudite professionals within the nursing and healthcare industry.
In the address by the Chairperson of the event, Mrs. Njide Ndili (President of Healthcare Federation of Nigeria and Country Director of PharmAccess), she emphasized the indispensable role of nurses in the healthcare system, stating that, “Nurses are so knowledgeable. They are there. Without them, the healthcare system doesn’t function”.
During this one-week long event, key activities included: a scientific conference for discussions on contemporary nursing practices and research; a data privacy and protection workshop for training on ethical data handling in healthcare; a “Walk Against Quackery” campaign promoting professional standards in healthcare; a cancer awareness outreach providing free cancer screenings and education to the community; a cultural festival celebrating Nigeria’s diverse cultural heritage through fashion, music, and dance. As well as the “Nurse-a-thon” and LECTURIO Quiz Competition engaging the students’ academic intellect and physical prowess.
Notably, the 5th day of the NUNSA General Assembly started off with an inspiring speech from H.E. Peter Obi at the College of Medicine, University of Lagos, where he spoke on the importance of investing in healthcare, education, and the nursing profession, highlighting the pressing issue of brain drain in Nigeria’s nursing sector and the need for Nigerian government to prioritise and retain its nursing talents, with opportunities for growth.
According to Nr Khadijah Jimoh, the 28th NUNSA National President, she said, “the 28th NUNSA Annual General Assembly not only provided a platform for professional development but also fostered unity and collaboration among nursing students nationwide. It stands as a testament to the commitment of Nigeria’s future nurses to drive positive change in the healthcare sector“.
This impactful event was made possible through the generous support of sponsors, with Union Bank serving as the headline sponsor and Nightingale Media, led by CEO Nurse Ronye Agholor, as the official media partner.
