The Oyo State College of Nursing Sciences, Eleyele, Ibadan, has inaugurated four new faculties in a move aimed at strengthening nursing education and consolidating its collegiate status.
The inauguration, held on Tuesday, saw the former Departments of Nursing, Midwifery, and Public Health elevated into standalone faculties: Medical-Surgical; Maternal & Child Health; Public Health and Community Care; and Psychiatric and Mental Health.
Provost of the College, Dr. Gbonjubola Owolabi, described the restructuring as a milestone in the institution’s history and a recognition of its long-standing contributions to nursing education.
She said the development would position the College to meet the increasing demand for nursing professionals in Nigeria and beyond.
“This new framework marks a significant milestone for the institution and the nursing profession in Nigeria,” Owolabi said, urging the newly appointed deans to ensure the production of world-class graduates.
She commended the Seyi Makinde-led administration for supporting the growth of the College, noting that discussions had commenced with the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), Ogbomoso, to begin degree programmes in nursing.
In his keynote address, the Pro-Chancellor of LAUTECH, Prof. Ayodeji Omole, hailed the development as both historic and groundbreaking.
He noted that the restructuring filled a long-standing gap in Nigeria’s nursing education and would mark a turning point in the practice.
“With this inauguration of new faculties, the College will witness a turning point in nursing education and practice,” Omole said, praising Owolabi’s resilience and administrative vision. He also reaffirmed LAUTECH’s commitment to supporting the College in its quest to award degree programmes and align with global best practices.
The inauguration is expected to enhance academic offerings, foster growth, and expand nursing education to meet the evolving needs of Nigeria’s healthcare sector.
