In a historic and inspiring event, the Makurdi College of Nursing Sciences (MCONS) held its first-ever matriculation ceremony on Friday, March 28, 2025. The landmark event marked the formal admission of 98 students into the College of Nursing Sciences.
The ceremony, which took place at the college premises, began at 10:00 AM with the arrival of guests and matriculating students. By 10:20 AM, members of the academia had assembled, followed by the ceremonial procession at 10:30 AM led by the Provost, management team, and heads of departments.
The programme officially commenced with the rendition of the Nigerian National Anthem and the Nursing Anthem, after which Reverend Simeon Msendoo Ikpiligh, the College Chaplain, offered the opening prayer.
The Registrar introduced the ceremony, paving the way for the Provost, Nur. Maria Igomu Oojo, to officially declare the event open. In her remarks, the Provost stated:
“The purpose of this occasion is to matriculate students into the College, and with the authority vested in me as the Provost of the College, I hereby declare this Ceremony open.”
The core of the ceremony took place shortly afterward, as the Head of Department of Nursing Sciences presented the students for matriculation. With pride and tradition, she addressed the Provost, saying:
“Will all the students of the Department of Nursing Sciences stand and remain standing. The Provost Ma, I present to you these ninety-eight (98) students for Matriculation.”
At the Provost’s instruction, the Registrar administered the Matriculation Oath, with all 98 students standing in unity as they pledged their dedication to the nursing profession and the values of the college.
The Provost later delivered her Matriculation Address, where she welcomed the students and encouraged them to remain committed to excellence, discipline, and the noble calling of nursing. She emphasized the College's mission to develop competent, compassionate, and ethical healthcare professionals ready to serve both Benue State and Nigeria at large.
The ceremony also featured goodwill messages, music, and light fanfare as families, guests, and college staff celebrated the beginning of an exciting journey for the students.
Closing the event, the Provost declared:
“With the authority vested in me as the Provost of the College, I hereby declare the Matriculation Ceremony closed.”
The programme concluded with a closing prayer, rendition of the National Anthem, and the ceremonial recession.
This matriculation ceremony not only enrolled MCONS’s first-ever set of students but also signaled a new chapter for nursing education in Benue State. With this pioneering class, the College sets its sights firmly on academic excellence and the production of healthcare professionals who will contribute meaningfully to the health sector.
