Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria Reveals Alarming Exodus of Healthcare Workers
The Registrar of the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria, Faruk Abubakar, has disclosed a concerning trend regarding the emigration of healthcare professionals from the country. In a recent statement, Abubakar revealed that over 15,000 nurses and midwives departed Nigeria in 2023 in pursuit of better opportunities abroad.
This revelation came amidst a backdrop of protests staged by nurses at the council's offices in Abuja and Lagos. The nurses voiced their grievances, citing obstacles hindering their career advancement, including challenges related to certification verification and overall welfare concerns.
The Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria recently revised its guidelines, stipulating that applicants seeking certification verification from foreign nursing boards must possess at least two years of post-qualification experience. However, this move has faced criticism from healthcare professionals.
Responding to the escalating exodus, Abubakar acknowledged the increasing departure of nurses from the country, citing a staggering figure of 42,000 nurses leaving over the past three years. He emphasized ongoing efforts by the Federal Ministry of Health to address nurses' concerns, promising improvements in working conditions, allowances, and salaries.
Despite assurances from health authorities, concerns persist regarding the welfare of healthcare workers in Nigeria. Abubakar clarified that while the Nursing and Midwifery Council regulates education and practice standards, it is not directly responsible for nurses' remuneration. However, he highlighted collaborative efforts between the ministry, professional associations, and stakeholders to address these issues.
The National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives (NANNM) has been actively engaged in discussions with government officials to advocate for improved welfare measures. Abubakar affirmed their commitment to enhancing nurses' welfare and urged stakeholders to prioritize the well-being of healthcare workers to sustain quality care delivery in Nigeria.
