Nursing Council Cautions Fresh Graduates on Responsible Use of Social Media

The Registrar of the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria, Ndagi Alhassan, has urged newly inducted nurses from Chrisland University, Abeokuta, Ogun State, to uphold professional ethics, show compassion in service, and exercise caution in their use of social media as they begin their careers.

Speaking at the induction ceremony for 57 graduating nurses, Alhassan — represented by the Council’s Principal Assistant Registrar, Dr. Olaniyi Filade — reminded the inductees that joining the nursing profession officially makes them accountable for every decision and action they take in their line of duty.

“Remember that you are now fully responsible for your own professional decisions while providing quality and value-based care to patients and other healthcare consumers,” he stated.

Alhassan described the ceremony as a major milestone marking the graduates’ transition from students to registered nurses. He noted that while nursing is a noble and rewarding calling, it demands compassion, patience, and dedication to meeting patients’ needs.

He emphasized that the core duties of nurses — promoting health, preventing illness, restoring wellness, and relieving suffering — can only be achieved through discipline, ethical conduct, and continuous learning.

He advised, “As you enter the workforce, ensure the safety of lives and perform your duties with excellence. Show competence, confidence, and sound judgment in your nursing practice.”

Alhassan further urged the new nurses to maintain high professional standards, strong communication skills, empathy, promptness, and problem-solving ability — qualities essential for building trust with patients and the public.

He cautioned against the misuse of social media, advising them to be mindful of the information they share and consume online, and to remain open to learning from experienced colleagues.

“Practise in line with the best available evidence, keep all patient information confidential, and continue to grow in knowledge and professionalism,” he said.

He also encouraged the graduates to uphold integrity, diligence, and excellence as ambassadors of both the nursing profession and Chrisland University, adding that the Council expects them to contribute meaningfully to strengthening Nigeria’s healthcare system.

In her remarks, Professor Oyeduni Arulogun, Vice Chancellor of Chrisland University, described the induction as another milestone in the institution’s pursuit of excellence and its commitment to producing skilled, compassionate, and ethical healthcare professionals.

She congratulated the new nurses for completing their demanding academic and clinical journey, reminding them that nursing is more than a profession — it is a calling rooted in service, empathy, and integrity.

“Nursing is a balance between skill and sympathy, knowledge and kindness, intellect and integrity. Your uniform is not just clothing — it is a symbol of trust. In hospitals and communities, you represent comfort, care, and hope,” she said.

Arulogun encouraged the graduates to let their professional oath guide their actions and maintain compassion, even in challenging moments. “Carry your oath as your compass, your values as your anchor, and your learning as your lifelong companion,” she advised.

Also speaking, Dr. Tomi Coker, Ogun State Commissioner for Health — represented by Dr. Bolanle Aminu, Director of Nursing Services — congratulated the inductees and urged them to carry out their duties with empathy, kindness, and professionalism.

She encouraged them to see themselves as agents of healing, comfort, and hope, upholding the principles of care and compassion that define the nursing profession.