…places 2nd in nationwide

By Egufe Yafugborhi

EMMANUELLA Aforkoghene Omosivwe of St. Francis Catholic College of Nursing Sciences, Okpara Inland, Delta state has finished 2nd Best at the 2026 national Florence Nightingale Speech Contest.

Organized by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN), tests student nurses on communication, evidence-based practice, and leadership.

Omosivwe had emerged champion at her school, state and South-South Zonal levels to represent the region at the national finals during the 18th Biennial Nursing Leaders Conference in Abuja.

Conquering 11 opponents at the South-South contest held at the Rivers State University, Port Harcourt, Omosivwe’s presentation on “Data-Driven Nursing: Using Research Evidence To Improve Patient Safety and Outcomes”, placed overall second among finalists from all geopolitical zones at the finals.

Describing the achievement as proof of her College’s impactful training, the Proprietor and Bishop of Warri Diocese, Most Rev. Anthony Ewherido and Mrs. Elizabeth Oghoteru Oyibocha, Provost,
“praised Omosivwe’s dedication and support structures as enables of the feat”

The Management also acknowledged “the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria and its CEO/Registrar, Dr. Alhassan Ndagi, for organizing a platform that nurtures nursing excellence.”

College leaders said the result highlights “Three major significance for Nursing and Midwifery Education. That St. Francis Catholic College of Nursing Sciences maintains high academic standards.

“That Delta State can compete strongly in national nursing scholarships as well as the critical role of investing in nursing education and research for stronger healthcare delivery.”

St. Francis Catholic College of Nursing Sciences, approved by NMCN in October 2024, commenced operations the month after and currently has 288 students in Nursing and Midwifery.

“We urge the Delta State Government, meaning individuals and stakeholders in the health sector for funding and resources support for student development, institutional partnerships with healthcare agencies and formal recognition for outstanding students and institutions,” the College stated.