Fellow Nurses Africa News | Lagos Nigeria, 13 July, 2025.
DNS Olushola Aketi’s Vision for Nurse Leadership at NUNSA UNILAG’s 10th Symposium 2025
On July 11, 2025, the Nigerian Universities Nursing Students’ Association (NUNSA) UNILAG Chapter hosted its 10th Academic Symposium, a pivotal event that marked a turning point in shaping the future of nursing leadership in Nigeria.
Held at the University of Lagos, the symposium brought together nursing students, educators, and healthcare professionals to discuss the evolving role of nurses in a rapidly changing world.
The event’s highlight was a stirring keynote address by DNS Olushola Aketi, Director of Nursing Services, Lagos State, whose words ignited a passion for transformational leadership among attendees.
A Vision for the Future of Nursing
DNS Aketi’s keynote, “The Leadership We Need: Equipping the Next Generation of Nurse Leaders for a Changing World,” was a powerful call to action for nursing students to prepare for global healthcare challenges. Speaking to a captivated audience, she declared, “The future is right there waiting to be taken.” Aketi urged NUNSA to move beyond local advocacy and pursue partnerships with international organizations like the International Council of Nursing (ICN) to amplify their impact on the global stage.
Her core message focused on three essential qualities for modern nurse leaders:
- Adaptability to Change: Nurses must embrace technological advancements, navigate global health crises, and adapt to evolving healthcare systems.
- Essential Skills: Emotional intelligence, digital proficiency, and cultural competence are critical for delivering equitable and innovative care.
- Global Ambition: NUNSA should aim for international visibility, fostering collaborations that elevate African nursing voices worldwide.
Aketi’s address was not just a speech but a roadmap for nursing students to become leaders who drive sustainable healthcare solutions in Africa and beyond.
Honoring a Champion of Nursing
In recognition of her steadfast commitment to mentoring young nurses and advancing the profession, DNS Olushola Aketi was honored with a prestigious award by NUNSA UNILAG. The award celebrated her transformative contributions to nursing education and her unwavering support for the association’s growth. Aketi’s mentorship has inspired countless students to pursue excellence, making her a true trailblazer in Nigerian nursing.
A Milestone for NUNSA UNILAG
The 10th Academic Symposium, held at UNILAG, was a celebration of nursing’s potential to shape a healthier future. The event featured a range of activities, including workshops, panel discussions, and networking opportunities, drawing nursing students and professionals from across Nigeria. As a leading institution in nursing education, UNILAG continues to produce graduates who are redefining healthcare delivery in Africa.
A Lasting Legacy
As the symposium concluded, Aketi’s words lingered: Leadership in nursing is about more than managing—it’s about creating a future where nurses lead with strength, compassion, and global impact. Her vision set a high standard for the next generation, inspiring students to see themselves as change-makers in a dynamic healthcare landscape.
For nursing students and professionals, the event was a reminder of the power of visionary leadership and the importance of collaboration in building a sustainable future for healthcare. DNS Olushola Aketi’s call to action will continue to guide NUNSA UNILAG and its members as they strive for excellence.
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Kehinde Oluwatosin is one of the many editors here at Fellow Nurses Africa and fellownurses.com.
He is a registered nurse with a Master of Science degree in healthcare leadership from the University of Hull, United Kingdom. Kehinde is passionate about advancing the nursing profession across Africa. As Co-Founder of Fellow Nurses Africa, he plays a key role in shaping editorial direction, ensuring our content educates, informs, and empowers nurses continent-wide.
With expertise in leadership, patient flow, and healthcare operations, Kehinde brings valuable insights to nursing news, career development, and policy discussions. He is committed to amplifying the voice of African nurses and driving positive change in the profession.
