Yesterday, December 12, 2024, the serene town of Nsukka in Enugu State witnessed a historic occasion as the prestigious La Vera College of Nursing Sciences (already accreditated by the NMCN) was officially inaugurated in a grand ceremony. The event, which drew dignitaries from various sectors, commenced at 10:00 AM with a Pontifical High Mass celebrated by the Catholic Bishop of Nsukka, Most Rev. Prof. Godfrey Igwebuike Onah, accompanied by over 20 priests, including prominent clerics such as the Dean of Nsukka Deanery, Rev. Fr. Dr. Simeon Ugwueze, the Vicar for Priests in the Diocese, Rev. Fr. Dr. Oliver Ugwu, and the Rector of St. John Cross Seminary Nsukka, Rev. Fr. Dr. Ferdinand Odoh.
In his inspiring homily, Bishop Onah lauded the Founder and Proprietor of the College, Dr. Anterus Eze, for his visionary initiative in establishing the institution. He commended Dr. Eze for his commitment to the educational and healthcare development of the Enugu North Zone, emphasizing the impact the College would have on the future of the Zone and the State in general. The Bishop also invoked divine blessings on the Governing Board, Management, Staff, and students, urging them to uphold the College’s mission and values.
The highlight of the Mass was the solemn blessing of the College buildings by the Bishop, marking the official dedication of the facility to the service of God and humanity.
Following the Mass, a vibrant reception was held, featuring sumptuous meals and cultural displays. Dignitaries graced the occasion, including the Executive Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, represented by the Commissioner for Environment and Climate Change, Prof. Chijioke Ugwu, and the Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, Dr. Yemi Jaye. The South East Zonal Coordinator of Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN), Mr. Alex Eze, graced the occasion as the Inaugural Lecture Presenter, and keynote Speaker.
Also in attendance were Hon. Solomon Izuchukwu Onah, Member representing Udenu Constituency at the Enugu State House of Assembly, Engr. Jude Asogwa, the Executive Chairman of Nsukka LGA, and his Udenu Counterpart — Aka Eze Aka and other notable government officials.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Eze, flanked by his wife, Rita Ogonna Anterus, expressed profound gratitude to all who contributed to the realization of the project. He charged the Management, Staff, and students to embrace excellence and uphold the founding ideals of the College. He reiterated his belief in the transformative power of education and healthcare, urging all stakeholders to commit to making La Vera College a center of academic and professional excellence.
La Vera College of Nursing Sciences, Nsukka, is the first of its kind in the Enugu North Zone and the second College of Nursing in Nsukka after Bishop Shanahan College of Nursing Sciences. Founded by Dr. Eze, a former Religious and Missionary of the Oblates of St. Joseph, the institution represents a significant milestone in the educational and healthcare landscape of the Nigeria.
The pioneer students of the College enlivened the ceremony with captivating performances, including choreographed routines and traditional cultural dances, showcasing the rich heritage of the community.
The event was attended by Traditional Rulers, Community Leaders, and Stakeholders who praised the establishment of the College as a monumental achievement. It is expected to play a pivotal role in addressing the shortage of healthcare professionals while contributing to the overall development of the State and the Nation at large.
The grand inauguration of La Vera College of Nursing Sciences signals a new dawn for nursing education in Enugu State, heralding a future where quality education and healthcare converge to serve society better.
✍️Jude Eze reported.
