By Kanayo Duke Okonkwo, Founder & Lead HSE Consultant, Pacesetter HSE ConsultPORT HARCOURT, RIVERS STATE — AUGUST 14, 2026

Pacesetter HSE Consult has celebrated the successful completion of its Occupational Health and Safety Training and Certification Programme for Batch 4 students of the College of Nursing Sciences, Umulogho (CONSU), with over 130 graduands receiving certificates at a colourful graduation ceremony held on Friday, August 14, 2026.The ceremony, held at the CONSU Lecture Hall in Umulogho, Obowo, Imo State, brought together representatives of the institution, community leaders, government representatives, traditional representatives, safety professionals, facilitators, graduands and invited guests to mark the successful completion of the programme.The graduation marked the culmination of the four-day HSE training and certification programme conducted from July 27 to 30, 2026, and provided an opportunity to celebrate the achievement of the trainees, recognise the support of stakeholders and formally induct new members into the Pacesetter SafeGuard Club (PSGC).The programme had earlier combined classroom instruction with extensive practical learning across eight core areas of occupational health and safety, including Safety Law & Legislation, Personal Protective Equipment, Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation, Hazard Identification & Control, Fire Safety & Emergency Procedures, Ergonomics & Manual Handling, Environmental Safety, and Health & Hygiene.

From Training to Graduation: A Practical Safety Journey

The journey to the graduation ceremony began with a practical, hands-on Occupational Health and Safety training programme designed specifically to give nursing students knowledge and skills they could apply in real professional environments.Throughout the four-day programme, trainees participated in practical sessions designed to move learning beyond theory.Students worked with CPR mannequins, practised chest compressions and airway management, explored health and hygiene scenarios and engaged in hazard identification and safety exercises.One of the standout practical sessions was Fire Safety & Emergency Procedures, delivered in partnership with the Abia State Fire Service. Students took turns operating fire extinguishers during a controlled outdoor practical exercise and received step-by-step guidance on appropriate fire-response techniques.The programme was facilitated by a team of seasoned professionals across the various modules. Facilitators included Ogba Ogbonnaya Umezuruike, an Anaesthetist & Intensivist; Engr. Uwandu Theaddeus; Mr. Igboruche Kizito; Architect Arua Nnanna O., Chief Fire Officer of the Abia State Fire Service; and Kanayo Duke Okonkwo, Founder & Lead HSE Consultant and Training Coordinator of Pacesetter HSE Consult.

Distinguished Guests Grace the Graduation Ceremony

The graduation ceremony attracted significant representation from the institution, government, traditional leadership and the wider Umulogho community.Rev. Fr. Vincent Onwukwe, the Administrator of the College of Nursing Sciences, Umulogho, who had been scheduled to chair the ceremony, was present at the opening and delivered the opening prayer before leaving to attend another important engagement.The Acting Provost of the institution, Mrs. Comfort Okorie, also graced the ceremony and remained for part of the proceedings before leaving to attend another scheduled meeting.The ceremony was further honoured by the presence of the Chief Fire Officer of the Abia State Fire Service, Architect Arua Nnanna O., as well as representatives of the Local Government Chairman, traditional ruler and President General of Umulogho.The President of Umulogho Youth Assembly, Hon. Uwazie Leonard Ugochukwu, attended the event in person and participated in the certificate presentation.

Opening Prayer

The opening prayer was led by Rev. Fr. Vincent Onwukwe, Administrator of the College of Nursing Sciences Umulogho, committing the graduation ceremony, the graduands, distinguished guests and the entire institution into God’s hands. The prayer formally opened the ceremony and set the tone for a memorable celebration of learning, achievement and professional development.

Welcome Address

Welcome Address: Kanayo Duke Okonkwo Highlights the Vision Behind the HSE ProgrammeDelivering the Welcome Address at the graduation ceremony, Kanayo Duke Okonkwo, Founder & Lead HSE Consultant of Pacesetter HSE Consult, welcomed the graduands, distinguished guests, representatives of the College of Nursing Sciences Umulogho, community leaders, facilitators and other invited guests to the ceremony.In his address, Okonkwo reflected on the journey from the commencement of the Occupational Health and Safety Training Programme to the graduation ceremony, describing the occasion as a celebration of learning, growth, practical competence and the commitment of the trainees.He expressed appreciation to the management of the College of Nursing Sciences Umulogho for providing the platform and support that made the training possible, as well as to the facilitators who shared their professional knowledge and practical experience with the students.He also acknowledged the distinguished guests, community leaders, representatives and other stakeholders whose presence and support contributed to the success of the programme.Okonkwo encouraged the graduating trainees to look beyond the certificates they were receiving and to make practical use of the knowledge and skills acquired during the training. He emphasised that safety should not be treated merely as a subject learned in the classroom, but as a responsibility that must become part of their professional conduct and everyday decision-making.He further highlighted the importance of continuing to build a culture of safety among young professionals and explained that the establishment of the Pacesetter SafeGuard Club would provide the graduates with an opportunity to continue learning, practising, advocating and developing leadership skills beyond the formal training programme.He concluded by congratulating the graduands on their achievement and expressing confidence that the knowledge and experience gained through the programme would contribute positively to their future careers and to safer healthcare environments.

Keynote Address: Prof. Mazi Eke Ejikem Emphasises the Importance of Safety in Healthcare Practice

A major highlight of the graduation ceremony was the keynote address delivered by Prof. Mazi Eke Ejikem, Dean, College of Medicine, Imo State University (IMSU).In his keynote address, Prof. Ejikem brought an important academic and professional perspective to the ceremony, highlighting the relevance of safety consciousness and responsible professional practice in healthcare.His presence at the ceremony added significant academic value to the event and further reinforced the importance of equipping healthcare professionals with the knowledge and mindset required to protect themselves, their colleagues, patients and the wider community.Pacesetter HSE Consult expressed profound appreciation to Prof. Mazi Eke Ejikem for honouring the invitation and contributing to the success of the graduation ceremony.The organisation also looks forward to paying a physical appreciation visit to the distinguished keynote speaker in recognition of his valuable contribution and support for the programme.

LGA Chairman’s Representative Delivers Goodwill Message

The Executive Chairman of Obowo Local Government Area, Hon. Barrister Johnson Obioma Ehirim, was represented at the ceremony by his Chief of Staff, Hon. Emeka Ogueri Onyeberechi.In his capacity as the Chairman’s representative, Hon. Emeka Ogueri Onyeberechi delivered the Local Government Chairman’s goodwill message and conveyed the Chairman’s support and encouragement to the organisers and graduating trainees.The Local Government Chairman’s support further demonstrated the importance of collaboration between government, educational institutions, professional organisations and the community in promoting initiatives that contribute to knowledge, professional development and safety awareness.The Chairman also conveyed his commitment to supporting the continued growth of the initiative.

Youth President Commends Initiative, Assures Students of Community Support

In his remarks at the ceremony, Hon. Uwazie Leonard Ugochukwu, President of Umulogho Youth Assembly, commended Pacesetter HSE Consult and its founder, Mr. Kanayo Duke Okonkwo, for investing in the knowledge and capacity development of the students.He encouraged the graduands to make good use of the knowledge, skills and experience acquired during their training, describing the opportunity as a stepping stone towards building a meaningful and successful future.Speaking in his capacity as Youth President of Umulogho, Hon. Uwazie assured the students of the community’s commitment to providing a peaceful and secure environment where they can learn, work and thrive.He emphasised the importance of maintaining cordial relationships with the host community and encouraged the students to conduct themselves responsibly and respectfully, not only within the school but also in their interactions with members of the host community.He further urged the graduands to remain disciplined, responsible and committed to excellence as they proceed into the next stages of their respective journeys.Hon. Uwazie concluded by commending the convener for the initiative and wishing all the graduands success and fulfilment in their future endeavours.

Elder Statesman Marcel Iweajunwa’s Goodwill Message

Elder Statesman Marcel Iweajunwa Commends HSE InitiativeThe graduation ceremony was also honoured by the presence of Elder Statesman Marcel Iweajunwa, who delivered a goodwill message at the occasion.Speaking at the ceremony, Elder Statesman Iweajunwa commended Pacesetter HSE Consult for the initiative and for providing the graduating nursing students with additional knowledge and practical skills that can contribute meaningfully to their professional development.His participation carried a special personal significance, as two of his children are alumni of the College of Nursing Sciences, Umulogho (CONSU). His connection with the institution therefore added a unique perspective to his goodwill message and his appreciation of the progress and development of the students.He congratulated the graduands on their achievement and encouraged them to make good use of the knowledge and skills acquired during their training as they advance in their professional careers.He also commended the organisers, the institution, the facilitators and other stakeholders for supporting initiatives that contribute to the development of young healthcare professionals.

Chief Fire Officer Delivers Goodwill Message

The ceremony was also honoured by the presence of Architect Arua Nnanna O., Chief Fire Officer of the Abia State Fire Service and one of Pacesetter HSE Consult’s seasoned facilitators.Architect Arua Nnanna, who had earlier facilitated the Fire Safety & Emergency Procedures module during the training, delivered a goodwill message at the graduation ceremony.His presence was particularly significant given his role in the practical fire-safety component of the training, where trainees received hands-on exposure to fire-extinguisher handling and emergency response procedures.His participation reinforced the importance of practical safety competence and the need for healthcare professionals to be prepared to respond appropriately to emergencies within their workplaces.

Traditional Ruler’s Goodwill Message Delivered by Representative

His Royal Majesty, Eze P. N. Uwalaka, N’logho II of Umulogho Autonomous Community was represented at the graduation ceremony by Chief Angus Uche Nwankwo, Deputy Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Obowo Local Government Area.Chief Angus Uche Nwankwo delivered the Royal Father’s goodwill message and conveyed his support and best wishes to the graduating trainees, organisers and other participants at the ceremony.The presence of the traditional institution further reflected the importance of community leadership and support for educational and professional development initiatives within the community.

President General’s Message Delivered by Vice President

The President General of Umulogho Town Union, Okeh-Nze High Chief Sir Kingsley Onukaogu, was represented at the ceremony by his Vice President, Chief Kizito Ekweghariri.Chief Kizito Ekweghariri delivered the President General’s goodwill message and conveyed his support and encouragement to Pacesetter HSE Consult and the graduating trainees.The President General also personally extended his support towards the success of the programme, further demonstrating the community leadership’s encouragement of initiatives focused on education, skills development and professional growth.

130+ Graduands Receive Certificates

One of the major highlights of the ceremony was the presentation of certificates to the successful graduands.With over 130 trainees completing the programme, the certificate presentation marked the formal recognition of their participation in the Occupational Health and Safety Training and Certification Programme.Successful trainees who completed the certification examination received a Recognised HSE Supervisor Certificate issued by Pacesetter HSE Consult, alongside a Course Transcript with HSE Practical Knowledge documenting the eight core modules covered during the programme.The presentation created memorable moments as graduands came forward individually and in groups to receive their certificates from invited dignitaries and representatives.

Pacesetter SafeGuard Club Officially Takes Off

Another major highlight of the ceremony was the formal induction of members into the Pacesetter SafeGuard Club (PSGC).The SafeGuard Club represents Pacesetter HSE Consult’s effort to extend safety education beyond one-off training programmes and establish an ongoing culture of safety awareness, practical learning, advocacy and leadership.The Club provides members with a structured platform for continued safety learning, monthly meetings, practical activities, safety awareness campaigns, advocacy initiatives, professional development and leadership opportunities.Its guiding philosophy is:LEARN • PRACTISE • ADVOCATE • LEAD. The newly inducted members therefore begin a new chapter in their safety journey — moving from trainees who received HSE knowledge to active members of a growing safety advocacy community.The CONSU Batch 4 SafeGuarders will have the opportunity to continue building on the knowledge acquired during their training while contributing positively to safety awareness within their institution, workplaces and communities.

Vote of Thanks Delivered by SafeGuarder Chigozirim Victor

The ceremony also featured a Vote of Thanks delivered on behalf of the graduating trainees by SafeGuarder Chigozirim Victor, one of the best graduating trainees of the CONSU Batch 4 programme.In the Vote of Thanks, Chigozirim expressed appreciation to Pacesetter HSE Consult, the management of the College of Nursing Sciences Umulogho, facilitators, invited dignitaries, community leaders and everyone who contributed to the success of the training and graduation ceremony.As one of the graduating trainees and a newly inducted member of the Pacesetter SafeGuard Club, his participation provided a fitting student perspective to the ceremony and brought the formal proceedings towards a memorable close.His role as one of the best graduating trainees also provided a strong representation of the commitment and achievement of the students who successfully completed the programme.

A New Chapter for the Graduands

As the graduands leave the training programme with their certificates, Pacesetter HSE Consult encouraged them to view the achievement not as an end, but as the beginning of a greater responsibility.The organisation reminded the new HSE-trained nursing professionals that safety is an everyday responsibility and that the knowledge acquired during the programme should influence how they approach their future workplaces, patients, colleagues and communities.For the newly inducted SafeGuard Club members, the journey continues through ongoing learning, practical engagement, safety advocacy and leadership.The CONSU Batch 4 graduation therefore marks not only the completion of a training programme, but also the beginning of a new generation of safety-conscious healthcare professionals and safety advocates.

Recognition of Community and Institutional Support

Pacesetter HSE Consult sincerely appreciates the management and staff of the College of Nursing Sciences, Umulogho, all facilitators, dignitaries, government representatives, traditional representatives, community leaders, invited guests and students who contributed to the success of the Batch 4 programme and graduation ceremony.The organisers particularly acknowledge the goodwill and support extended by the Local Government Chairman, the traditional institution, the President General of Umulogho Town Union, the Umulogho Youth Assembly and the Abia State Fire Service.The organisers noted that such support demonstrates the importance of collaboration between educational institutions, professional organisations, government, community leadership and young people in promoting a stronger culture of safety, knowledge and professional development.

Pacesetter HSE Consult’s Commitment to Safer Workplaces and Communities

The successful completion of the CONSU Batch 4 programme further strengthens Pacesetter HSE Consult’s commitment to professional HSE training, consultancy, certification, safety advocacy and community-based safety initiatives.Pacesetter HSE Consult is the training and consulting arm of Pacesetter & Co Integrated Business Nigeria Limited (RC 2023788).The organisation provides HSE training and certification, corporate HSE consultancy, seminars, workshops and other safety solutions for individuals, institutions, organisations and communities.The organisation is led by Kanayo Duke Okonkwo, Founder & Lead HSE Consultant, a Human Physiology graduate of Abia State University who graduated as Best Graduating Student and has undertaken professional Occupational Health and Safety certifications locally and internationally.He is a Fellow of SGI / World Safety Organization, an Associate Member of the Occupational Safety and Health Association UK, and an Associate Member of the Nigerian Red Cross Society.With the conclusion of the CONSU Batch 4 programme and the emergence of the new SafeGuard Club members, Pacesetter HSE Consult’s focus now turns towards sustaining the safety culture created through the initiative and expanding its impact across institutions and communities.

THE GRADUATION MAY HAVE ENDED. THE SAFETY JOURNEY CONTINUES. Congratulations to the over 130 graduands of CONSU Batch 4! Your training may have ended, but your responsibility as safety-conscious professionals has only begun. LEARN • PRACTISE • ADVOCATE • LEAD PACESETTER HSE CONSULT – Empowering Safe Workplaces • Protecting Lives • Sustaining Environments

About The Author

Kanayo Duke Okonkwo

Founder & Lead HSE Consultant, Pacesetter HSE Consult

Kanayo Duke Okonkwo is the Founder and Lead HSE Consultant of Pacesetter HSE Consult, an Occupational Health, Safety and Environment training and consultancy organisation based in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

He holds a BSc (Hons.) in Human Physiology from Abia State University, where he graduated as Best Graduating Student, and has completed professional Occupational Health and Safety certifications locally and internationally.

He is a Fellow of SGI / World Safety Organization, an Associate Member of the Occupational Safety and Health Association UK, and an Associate Member of the Nigerian Red Cross Society.

With over six years of hands-on HSE experience, he has trained over 4,000 students across various institutions, bringing his experience and professional network to the programmes he leads.

Through Pacesetter HSE Consult, Kanayo Duke Okonkwo continues to promote occupational health and safety education, professional development, safety advocacy and practical HSE awareness among students, professionals, institutions and communities.