By Aderogba George
The National President of the National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM), Haruna Mamman, has pledged to prioritise research and evidence-based practice to advance the association.
Mamman made this commitment during the opening of the association’s National Executive Council (NEC) meeting in Abuja on Tuesday.
He also promised to amplify the voices of all members, encouraging active participation in discussions and idea-sharing within the association.
“Research and evidence-based practice will be at the forefront of our administration, alongside welfare and workforce support. The well-being of our members is paramount,” Mamman stated.
He emphasised his commitment to addressing key issues such as remuneration, job security, and workplace safety.
“I am dedicated to creating a support system that empowers our nurses and midwives to thrive both professionally and personally,” he added.
Mamman outlined a strategic blueprint for his administration, stressing the need for collaboration and inclusivity to achieve the association’s goals.
“To achieve this blueprint, we must work collaboratively, leveraging our diverse strengths and expertise. Our governing organs will play crucial roles in shaping the future of our association.
“Our immediate action plan focuses on reconciliation and unity, fostering a spirit of inclusivity and cooperation.
“We will develop a comprehensive strategic plan to address the association’s challenges and opportunities,” Mamman emphasised.
He called on members to remain united and empowered by a shared vision for a stronger and more resilient nursing profession.
Mamman pledged to collaborate with educational institutions and the Nurses and Midwives Council of Nigeria (NMCN) to align nursing training with international standards.
“We must prepare our nurses to meet the challenges of the modern healthcare landscape through rigorous training and development,” he said.
The Chairman of NANNM FCT, Mr Jama Medan, noted the shortage of nurses in hospital facilities within the nation’s capital.
He called on the FCT administration and the Federal Government to urgently employ more nurses.
“Currently, a single nurse in many facilities has to care for 30 to 40 patients, which goes against the World Health Organisation (WHO) standards,” Medan explained.
Mrs Eunice Ugwu, the Chairman of NANNM in Enugu appealed to the government to include the association in decision-making processes.
She noted, “While other professions are represented in government policy-making bodies, nurses are often excluded”.
Ugwu also urged the government to review nurses’ salaries, stressing that better compensation would lead to improved service delivery.
NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA