No room for mediocrity, NAF College warns 120 nursing students
By Mohammad Tijjani, Kaduna
The Nigerian Air Force College of Nursing Sciences (NAFCONS) Kaduna, has warned its 6th set of nursing students that the institution would not condone mediocrity.
The Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, gave the warning on Friday at the matriculation of 120 students admitted by the college for the 2025 academic session.
The Air Chief, who was the special guest, was represented by Chief of Medical Service, Nigerian Air Force, AVM Anthony Ekpe .
“Remember, your education is not just about acquiring knowledge, but also about developing your character.
“Gaining admission into this institution is no small feat. It speaks volume of your determination, intelligence, and your readiness to step into a profession that demands the best.
“What makes this institution unique is the blend of military and civilian students who come together with one shared goal, which is to serve humanity through the profession of nursing.
“Whether you are a military personnel or not, the expectations are the same.
“You are being trained to become professionals who are trusted with lives and in that responsibility, there is no room for mediocrity, ” he said.
Abubakar said it was necessary for them to bear that in mind so as to contribute to addressing the challenges of healthcare in Nigeria.
“Our shared duty is to raise the standard of care across the board, from urban hospitals to rural clinics, from military facilities to public health centres.
“We need nurses who are not only clinically competent but also adaptable, ethical and resilient in the face of Nigeria’s complex health challenges.”
He noted that the nursing profession in Nigeria is facing real and pressing challenges, which include workforce shortages, resource constraints, outdated infrastructure in some areas and the increasing migration of skilled professionals abroad.
“NAFCONS is building nurses who are not only skilled but also prepared to lead change by becoming problem-solvers in a system that desperately needs innovation, compassion, and resilience.
“Your education will equip you with both clinical knowledge and a strong sense of service.
“The knowledge and values you will gain here will not only shape your careers, but will touch the lives of countless individuals across this nation,” the CAS said.
He, therefore, charged them to be discipline, respectful, and never lose sight of the reason why they were admitted.
“Rest assured that, Headquarters Nigerian Air Force would continue to provide you with all necessary support to achieve your objectives,” he added, and appreciated President Bola Tinubu for his support to the Nigerian Air Force.
“We shall continue to give our best towards securing our country,” Abubakar said.
Earlier, the Commandant of NAFCONS, Squadron Leader Boyi Elisha, said the event marked a significant milestone in the students’ academic journey, symbolizing their official entry into the institution.
Elisha emphasis the institution’s commitment to producing highly skilled nursing professionals, and encouraged the new students to take advantage of the available resources to excel in their studies.
The Commandant also urged the students to be disciplined, hard working, and strive for academic excellence, as well as uphold the institution’s values and code of conduct.
Elisha appreciated Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria, the National Board, and the Joint Admission Matriculation Board for their contributions to the college.
