Federal Polytechnic Oko Management Commends Nurses During 2026 Nursing Week Celebration

The Management of Federal Polytechnic Oko has applauded nurses serving at the institution’s Medical Centre for their commitment, compassion, and vital contributions to healthcare delivery within the Polytechnic community.

The commendation was made during the grand finale of the 2026 Nursing Week celebration held on Tuesday, May 12, where the Rector, Dr. Chioma Irene Awuzie, praised medical practitioners for their dedication to service.

Represented at the event by the Deputy Rector (Academic), Dr. Nkiruka Akabuike, the Rector described nursing as a highly respected profession that carries enormous responsibilities in the healthcare sector.

According to her, nurses play critical roles in patient care through emotional support, monitoring of patients, and proper implementation of doctors’ prescriptions. She noted that the institution places great importance on healthcare services and the welfare of both staff and students.

She further disclosed that within a short period in office, the Rector approved the supply of pharmaceuticals and laboratory consumables to improve service delivery at the Polytechnic Medical Centre.

The nurses were encouraged to remain committed to their duties and continue giving students quality healthcare attention, as Management has bigger plans for the development of the institution’s health facility.

In her welcome address, the Chief Nursing Officer of the Polytechnic, Onyeneke Lizzy, explained that Nursing Week is celebrated globally in honour of nurses and the founder of modern nursing, Florence Nightingale.

Speaking on the theme, “Empowered Nurses Save Lives,” she stated that improved support and empowerment for nurses would lead to lower mortality rates, better patient satisfaction, and a more efficient healthcare system.

She also appreciated the Rector for her support towards the Medical Centre and appealed for improved working conditions and a conducive environment that would enable nurses to effectively carry out their responsibilities in promoting and restoring health.

Also speaking at the event, the Acting Director of the Polytechnic Medical Centre, Dr. Paul Okosa, urged members of the Polytechnic community to make proper use of the Medical Centre for treatment and healthcare services.

He explained that the centre provides medical attention to both individuals registered under the institution’s health insurance scheme and those yet to register.

Goodwill messages were also delivered by representatives of the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Polytechnics (SSANIP) and SSAUTHTRAI during the celebration.