The U (UI) is set to celebrate the 60th anniversary of its Nursing Programme, marking six decades of pioneering excellence, innovation, and leadership in nursing education across Nigeria and West Africa.

The week-long celebration, scheduled for October 13 to 19, 2025, will highlight the programme’s transformative journey since its establishment in 1965.

It will also honour past trailblazers, reconnect with alumni, and chart a new course for the future of nursing education in Africa’s evolving healthcare landscape.

Established as the first university-based nursing programme in sub-Saharan Africa, the UI Nursing Programme revolutionised nursing education by transitioning from the traditional hospital-based apprenticeship model to a research-driven academic discipline. The initiative, regarded as visionary, set new standards in professional development and policy engagement.

Over the years, the programme has produced distinguished professionals, educators, clinicians, and public health advocates who have contributed significantly to healthcare systems within and beyond Africa. Its alumni currently hold key positions in global institutions, academia, healthcare administration, and development agencies.

Dean of the Faculty of Nursing, Professor Prisca Adejumo, described the milestone as a “celebration of vision, resilience, and transformation.”

“Sixty years is not just the passage of time—it represents courage, scholarship, and lasting impact,” Adejumo said. “The University of Ibadan Nursing Programme has contributed immensely to Nigeria’s healthcare system through research, education, and community engagement. We are proud of our legacy and optimistic about the future.”

Chairperson of the 60th Anniversary Planning Committee, Dr. Adeyinka Ishola, said the celebration would serve as both a tribute and a call to action.
“This jubilee honours those who laid the foundation for academic nursing in Nigeria and reaffirms our commitment to advancing nursing leadership and innovation for future generations,” Ishola stated.

In line with global trends, the Nursing Programme is pursuing an ambitious vision to become a centre of excellence in advanced nursing science, digital health education, and leadership training. Planned developments include simulation laboratories, telehealth teaching platforms, and specialised postgraduate programmes in critical care, informatics, and community health.

Vice Chancellor of the University, Professor Kayode Adebowale, reaffirmed the institution’s support for the programme’s continued growth.

“This programme is one of the University’s proudest achievements,” Adebowale said. “For six decades, it has produced nurses who are not only highly skilled but also visionary leaders transforming healthcare in Africa and beyond.”

The anniversary events will feature academic lectures, alumni reunions, exhibitions, community health outreaches, and a grand award dinner to honour distinguished alumni, faculty members, and institutional partners.

As the UI Nursing Programme marks 60 years, its message remains clear — a steadfast commitment to compassionate care, innovation, and academic excellence.

“The torch of excellence must keep burning,” Professor Adejumo affirmed. “UI Nursing stands ready to light the path to a healthier and more equitable future for Nigeria, Africa, and the world.”