Nursing offered me career to inspire hope, help people heal —Lilian Bamigboye, Fountain Varsity’s First Class Nursing graduate

Lilian Toluwalope Bamigboye graduated from the Department of Nursing, Fountain University, Osogbo, with a First Class. She graduated with a Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 4.58 on a scale of 5.0. In this interview by Awau Adegoke, she speaks about her academic journey and other issues.

How would you describe the kind of secondary education you had and how it prepared you for higher education?

My secondary education was a formative period of my life. I attended a school that emphasised academic excellence and moral upbringing. The structured curriculum and the supportive environment taught me discipline, time management, and resilience — qualities that have been instrumental in my academic journey and professional life. Participating in extracurricular activities and leadership roles also honed my interpersonal skills and prepared me for the multifaceted challenges of higher education and life beyond academics.

 

Among all the universities in Nigeria, why did you choose Fountain University? And why Nursing?

Fountain University stood out to me because of its commitment to academic excellence and its faith-based environment, which fosters a sense of discipline and moral integrity. Choosing Nursing was a deeply personal decision. Growing up, I was drawn to the idea of making a tangible difference in people’s lives. Nursing offered me the perfect blend of science, compassion, and service—a career where I could not only heal but also inspire hope.

 

What aspect(s) or area(s) of mass communication interested you more as an undergraduate and why?

While Nursing was my primary focus, I had a strong interest in health communication—a field that combines my passion for healthcare with the power of effective communication. I found it fascinating to learn how mass communication strategies can be used to promote public health, raise awareness about critical issues, and influence positive behavioural changes within communities.

 

What was the title of your final-year project and what were the major findings from it?

The title of my final-year project was ‘Perceived impact of interprofessional collaboration on quality of care in surgical units among healthcare providers in UNIOSUN Teaching Hospital’.

My research revealed that effective interprofessional collaboration significantly improved patient outcomes, reduced errors, and enhanced the overall quality of care. These findings emphasise the importance of fostering teamwork and communication among healthcare professionals to achieve better results in surgical units.

 

Of all your undergraduate clinical postings, which one was most impactful?

My most impactful clinical posting was at Adeoyo Maternity Hospital, Ibadan. On one occasion, I assisted with a complicated delivery that required quick thinking and teamwork. The experience taught me the importance of composure under pressure and the profound impact of collaborative care. Witnessing the joy of a successful delivery, despite challenges, reinforced my passion for maternal and child health.

 

You have worked and had some experience in some hospitals in southwest Nigeria. If you were to recommend three interventions that would make the hospitals you have worked in better than you meet them, what would they be?

Improved staff welfare: Ensuring competitive salaries and providing continuous professional development opportunities to enhance job satisfaction and performance.

Infrastructural upgrade: Modernising facilities and equipment to meet global healthcare standards and improve patient outcomes.

Streamlined processes: Implementing digital health systems to reduce paperwork, improve patient record management, and enhance service delivery.

 

In one of your LinkedIn posts, you stated, “While there were times I felt unsure about my path, I kept pushing forward — and, today, I stand as a First-Class graduate of Nursing Science.” Could you elaborate on these unsure moments and how you managed them?

There were moments when juggling rigorous coursework, clinical duties, and personal challenges felt overwhelming. At times, I doubted my ability to meet the high standards I had set for myself. However, I relied on my faith, support from family and mentors, and a strong sense of purpose to persevere. Breaking tasks into manageable goals and celebrating small wins kept me motivated to push through.

 

Fountain University is an Islamic-based institution. What are your perceptions about Islam, and how has it influenced your worldview?

Studying at Fountain University gave me a deeper appreciation of Islam and its emphasis on discipline, compassion, and community. The interfaith interactions fostered mutual respect and broadened my worldview, teaching me the importance of inclusivity and understanding in creating harmonious relationships.

 

In the course of your studies, what were the things or situations you think your university could improve on to make life and schooling more comfortable for students and staff?

While my experience was largely positive, some areas could benefit from improvement, such as:

Enhanced infrastructure: Upgrading hostels and classrooms to provide a more conducive learning environment.

Accessible counselling services: Establishing robust support systems for mental health and academic guidance.

Wi-Fi connectivity: Providing reliable internet access to facilitate research and online learning.

 

Beyond nursing, you excel in virtual assistance, video editing, content writing, and social media management. How and when did you learn these skills?

I developed these skills through self-paced learning, online courses, and hands-on practice during my leisure in the university. They have been instrumental in diversifying my income streams. For instance, working as a virtual assistant and social media manager not only provides financial stability but also allows me to explore my creative side and build a personal brand.

 

What are your plans now you have graduated, and where do you see yourself in five years?

My immediate plan is to complete my internship and become a registered midwife.

In five years, I see myself excelling in maternal and child health, possibly pursuing further studies to specialise. I also envision scaling my ventures in digital skills, mentoring young professionals, and contributing to healthcare innovations in Nigeria. 

 

What is your advice to students aspiring to achieve the kind of academic feat you achieved?

My advice is to stay focused and disciplined. Set clear goals, seek mentorship, and never hesitate to ask for help when needed. Balance is key. Prioritise your studies while also nurturing your physical, mental, and social well-being.

Lastly, believe in yourself and remain consistent in your efforts—success is a journey, not a destination.

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