The Oncology Nursing Society of Nigeria (ONSN) has made history with the successful hosting of its first ever national conference held at Babcock University, Ogun State, a landmark event that brought together oncology nurses, academics, researchers, and health advocates from across the country.
The maiden conference marked a significant step in Nigeria’s evolving cancer care landscape as it provided a national platform for professional networking, policy dialogue, capacity building and the promotion of evidence-based oncology nursing practice.
A major highlight of the conference was the induction of Nurse Geraldine Onuorah, an oncology nurse from the Federal Medical Centre Umuahia into the Academy of Oncology Nursing as a Fellow.
In his welcome address, the Founder and National President of the Oncology Nursing Society of Nigeria, Professor Chinonso Nwozichi described the conference as a defining moment for the society and oncology nursing in Nigeria as a whole.
Professor Nwozichi noted that the establishment of the society and the hosting of its first national conference were driven by the urgent need to strengthen the capacity of oncology nurses amid Nigeria’s rising cancer burden. He emphasised that oncology nurses play a critical role across the cancer care continuum, including prevention, early detection, treatment, survivorship and palliative care.
According to him, the conference was designed to foster collaboration, encourage research, promote continuous professional development and position oncology nurses as key stakeholders in national cancer control efforts.
The event also featured the formal recognition of Rotary International for its sustained partnership and impactful contributions to cancer awareness, prevention and education.
While fielding questions from journalists at the conference, Nurse Geraldine Onuorah expressed profound gratitude for her induction, describing it as a moment of pride and renewed responsibility. She noted that the recognition reflects her personal journey and also the collective efforts of oncology nurses working tirelessly to improve cancer outcomes in Nigeria.
Nurse Onuorah, who is a past President of the Rotary Club of Umuahia North and currently an Assistant Governor highlighted the importance of multidisciplinary and cross-sector partnerships in addressing cancer challenges, particularly in low- and middle-income settings.
In a symbolic gesture underscoring the synergy between healthcare professionals and service organisations, Nurse Onuorah decorated Professor Chinonso Nwozichi with a Rotary branded cancer awareness pin in recognition of his commitment, leadership and outstanding contributions to cancer care, research and education both within Nigeria and on the global stage.
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