The leadership of the National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM) has applauded Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo for the continuous efforts in promoting the welfare of civil servants across the state.
In a statement by the Chairman in Lokoja on Monday, the Chairman, NANNM, Kogi State Specialist Hospital, Comrade Francis Eneojo Obaje, the Association congratulated Governor Ododo on his outstanding participation and impactful presence at the just concluded National Convention of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Abuja.
However, the Chairman humbly drew the kind attention of the governor to seven pressing issues affecting the nursing profession, particularly at the Kogi State Specialist Hospital, Lokoja.
He lamented about the continuous brain drain in the nursing profession. The Chairman punctuated an increasing migration of skilled nurses in search of better opportunities, which is affecting service delivery.
The Chairman notified the Governor that there is shortage of nurses as the facility is currently understaffed, necessitating the urgent recruitment of new nursing and midwife personnel to ensure quality healthcare services.
The chairman listed motivation allowance as the second pressing issue. He respectfully requested the inclusion of nurses in the provision of motivation allowances, as currently enjoyed by some other professional groups.
He further appealed for the implementation of the approved uniform allowance for nurses as stipulated by the National Income, Salaries and Wages Commission (NISWC).
Listing training and capacity building as the fourth pressing issue, the Chairman called for provision of sponsorship for nurses and midwives to attend conferences, seminars, and other professional training is crucial for improved service delivery.
NANNM appealed to the state government to consider the appointment of their members into the state executive council and/or as head of ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs).
The Association called for normalization of CONHESS salary structure for nurses to ensure fairness and equity.
Finally, NANNM requested for the prompt financial implementation of recent promotions for nurses to boost morale and productivity.
Comrade Obaje stated that addressing these concerns will not only improve the healthcare system in Kogi State but also enhance the efficiency and dedication of nurses and midwives who remain the backbone of patient care.
“The trust of the Nurses and Midwives in your administration’s commitment to justice, equity, and the well-being of all workers is unshakeable, and we remain optimistic that these issues will receive your urgent and favorable consideration,” he added.
