By Peter Onyekachukwu 
By Peter Onyekachukwu
In a moment of joy, pride, and promise for Nigeria’s healthcare future, Lily College of Nursing Sciences, Warri, Delta State, has matriculated its pioneer set of 100 nursing and 35 midwifery students, officially marking their transition into the noble profession.
The maiden matriculation and capping ceremony, held in Effurun, Uvwie Local Government Area, saw the students light candles symbolizing their call to serve humanity with compassion and integrity—after completing a six-month foundational training.
With the symbolic capping and oath-taking, the students were presented to society as full-fledged trainees recognized by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria.
Chairman of the Day and Board Chairman of Lily Hospitals, Dr. Sangu Delle, in a keynote address, charged the students to live with purpose, strive for excellence, and see themselves as global health professionals.
“Today, we present to you future health leaders. These young people are not just being trained for local impact they are being prepared to meet global healthcare demands. You don’t need permission to be excellent,” Dr. Delle said.
He encouraged the students to start building the habits of global-standard nurses.
“Speak the language, act the part, and carry yourself with dignity because the world is watching.”
Using the example of Kenyan Olympic runner Faith Kipyegon, Dr. Delle advised the students not to simply compete with classmates but to break personal limits and global records.
He said, “Live your life not just to set records, but to break them. Become a global brand. The world needs thousands of impactful nurses.”
On the issue of talent migration, he urged a paradigm shift, adding that “Nigeria should not fight talent migration. Instead, we should train nurses not just for Nigeria, but for the world. Let’s export our human capital, not just oil.”
A representative of the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria, Mr. Amaechi Francis, congratulated the students for passing their Preliminary Training School (PTS) exams and officially entering the council’s student register. He emphasized ethics and record-keeping ahead of their professional certification journey.
Provost of the College, Mr. Felix, praised the milestone and thanked staff, parents, and stakeholders.
Mr Felix said, “We’re proud to be the third private College of Nursing in Delta State, and this is just the beginning. We will grow into a National and Higher National Diploma-awarding institution.”
The event also featured the symbolic bestowal of the Nightingale torch, a nod to nursing pioneer Florence Nightingale, reminding students that they are not just trainees but “healers” and “light-bringers.”
“You are the proof that the future of Africa’s healthcare will not be imported it will be homegrown,” a speaker declared.
With hands raised, the students took their oath, pledging to uphold nursing ethics, promote their institution’s image, and serve humanity with compassion and discipline.