Rising Star: How Khadijah Jimoh Became the Best Nursing Graduate at the University of Lagos
At Fellow Nurses Africa, we are passionate about celebrating excellence in nursing education across Africa. Today, we proudly spotlight Khadijah Jimoh, the overall best graduating student from the Department of Nursing, College of Medicine, University of Lagos (UNILAG). Khadijah’s story is one of resilience, leadership, and an unwavering passion for nursing — a journey that inspires the next generation of nurses in Nigeria and beyond.
Meet Khadijah Jimoh: A Future Leader in Nursing
Introducing herself warmly, Khadijah shared,
“My name is Khadijah Jimoh. I’m a recent graduate of the Department of Nursing, UNILAG, and the immediate past National President of the Nigerian Universities Nursing Students Association (NUNSA).”
Her journey through nursing school in Nigeria was anything but easy, filled with unexpected challenges like university strikes, the COVID-19 pandemic, and delayed professional examinations. What was meant to be a five-year course stretched into seven demanding years.
Despite it all, Khadijah remained focused and consistent, developing a nightly study routine that involved staying back on campus to prepare for her coursework. “Even if it was just for an hour each night, I made sure to read,” she said, emphasizing the importance of discipline.
Choosing Nursing: A Career Rooted in Compassion
For Khadijah, nursing was never just about academics — it was a calling.
“I wanted a profession where I could truly care for people and be there for them at significant points in their lives,” she explained.
Among all healthcare professions, she found that nursing gave her the greatest opportunity to blend medical care with emotional support, bringing hope to patients in their most vulnerable moments.
Study Habits That Set Her Apart
Khadijah’s secret to academic excellence? Discipline, consistency, and collaboration.
Beyond her personal study routine, she engaged actively with study partners and after-class discussions, which helped her stay motivated and deepen her understanding of complex topics — a critical strategy for success in nursing education in Africa.
Overcoming Challenges: Leadership and Grit
Stepping into leadership as NUNSA National President was one of the biggest challenges Khadijah faced. Initially hesitant, she was inspired after attending a conference where Professor Prisca Adejumo spoke on leadership and research.
Balancing her academic workload, leadership duties, and a research job at the National Institute of Health and Care Research was overwhelming at times. Yet, Khadijah achieved outstanding academic results, proving that resilience and time management are key in navigating the demanding world of nursing in Nigeria.
The Power of Faith and Community Support
Khadijah attributes her success largely to her faith, her close circle of supportive friends, and the unwavering belief of her father in her educational journey.
“My father didn’t complete his education, but he made sure I got mine,” she said with emotion.
She also acknowledged her late mother’s inspiring legacy as a scholarship-winning student, which continues to motivate her pursuit of excellence.
Unforgettable Moments at UNILAG
Among her fondest memories are organizing the NUNSA General Assembly and celebrating the YBC Symposium with her classmates. These events strengthened her sense of community and pride in being part of the future of nursing in Africa.
Words of Wisdom for Future Nurses
Khadijah offers this heartfelt advice to nursing students:
“Believe in yourself. No amount of support will help if you don’t believe you can succeed. Dream big, set goals, and chase them — especially as a student.”
Her message is a powerful reminder that mindset is just as important as hard work.
Looking Ahead: A Future in Oncology Nursing
Post-graduation, Khadijah plans to begin her internship at Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), where she earned a direct placement. She is particularly passionate about oncology nursing and dreams of one day becoming a professor, shaping the next generation of African nurses.
Final Thoughts
Khadijah Jimoh’s inspiring journey reminds us that with vision, faith, and relentless hard work, we can rise above any obstacle. As she steps into her professional nursing career, her impact is sure to be felt not only in healthcare but across the broader landscape of nursing leadership in Nigeria.
Congratulations once again, Khadijah — the future is bright, and it’s yours to own!
Fellow Nurses Africa is the independent voice of African nursing. We educate, inform, and support the nursing profession
