By Ayomide Otitoju
Nigerian nurses in the diaspora, under the umbrella of the Yoruba United Nurses of North America (YUNONA), have presented cash and gifts to outstanding graduating nursing students from Lagos State colleges of nursing, as part of their end-of-year activities in Nigeria.
The presentations were made during visits to selected institutions across the state by a YUNONA delegation led by its President, Mrs. Efunshola Oshodi, alongside the Community Program Director, Mrs. Tina Aje, and the Administrator, Mrs. Adeola Olagbaju.
Speaking during the visits, Oshodi said the initiative was part of the association’s commitment to giving back to society by recognising and rewarding excellence among young professionals. She noted that while YUNONA has consistently carried out similar philanthropic activities in the United States, including the “Operation Christmas Child” initiative for children of incarcerated individuals, the group resolved to extend its impact to Nigeria.
“As Nigerians, we felt it was important to come back home to encourage upcoming nurses. Excellence deserves recognition, encouragement and celebration,” Oshodi said.
She explained that the decision to honour the best graduating students followed discussions with the Lagos State Director of Nursing in the Ministry of Health, Mrs. Sola Aketi, who highlighted the need to motivate young nurses as future leaders in the profession.
“Giving back has become a ritual for us. This year, we decided to bring the journey home by supporting and appreciating our young professionals,” she added.
Commending the gesture, Mrs. Aketi described the initiative as timely, particularly in light of the growing emigration trend, popularly known as the ‘Japa’ syndrome, within the health sector. She said the recognition could encourage young nurses to remain in Nigeria and contribute to the local healthcare system.
During the visits, YUNONA presented gifts to Roqeebat Awode, the overall best student and best graduating student in midwifery at the Lagos State College of Nursing, Igando. At the Nigerian Army College of Nursing, Yaba, Adisa Precious, the best graduating student, was similarly honoured.
Other award recipients included Awodele Kikelomo, best graduating student at the Lagos State College of Medicine, LASUCOM; Adewale Grace of the Lagos State College of Nursing, LASCON, Ikoyi; and Oluwapelumi Faith of the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, Idi-Araba, who emerged as the best HND 1 student.
The initiative, YUNONA said, reflects its ongoing commitment to supporting education, professional excellence and the future of nursing in Nigeria.
