Fellow Nurses Africa News Desk ||Maiduguri, Nigeria || May 27th 2025.
International Nurses Week 2025: UMTH Nurses Shine with Street Walk and School Outreach in Maiduguri
On May 26, 2025, the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH) in Borno State launched International Nurses Week (INW) 2025 with an inspiring Day 1 filled with community engagement and purpose. Led by the dynamic Nurse Halima, the NANNM Unit Chairman of UMTH, the day featured a spirited Street Walk and a transformative School Outreach program, setting the tone for a week of celebrating nurses’ invaluable contributions to healthcare and society.
A Vibrant Start with the Street Walk
The streets of Maiduguri came alive as UMTH nurses, dressed in their crisp uniforms, marched through key areas around the hospital and neighboring communities. Holding placards adorned with powerful messages aligned with this year’s INW theme, the nurses showcased their pride and dedication to the profession. The Street Walk was more than a procession—it was a bold statement of nurses’ vital role as healthcare frontliners and advocates for public health.
The event drew attention from passersby, sparking conversations about the importance of nursing in building healthier communities. By taking their message to the streets, UMTH nurses reinforced their commitment to visibility, advocacy, and community engagement, proving that their impact extends far beyond hospital walls.
Inspiring the Next Generation Through School Outreach
Following the walk, the UMTH NANNM team shifted their focus to inspiring young minds through a School Outreach program in selected secondary schools across Maiduguri. The outreach was a blend of education and inspiration, featuring career talks, health education sessions, and interactive discussions on critical topics like hygiene, mental health, and the pivotal role of nurses in the healthcare system.
Students were captivated as nurses shared stories of compassion, resilience, and innovation in their daily work. The sessions aimed to ignite a passion for nursing among the youth, presenting it as a noble, rewarding, and dynamic career path. By fostering early interest in the profession and promoting healthy lifestyle practices, UMTH nurses planted seeds for a healthier and more engaged future generation.
Leadership and Vision from Nurse Halima
At the heart of the day’s success was Nurse Halima, whose leadership as NANNM Unit Chairman galvanized the UMTH nursing community. In her address, she passionately highlighted nurses’ role as the backbone of healthcare delivery, emphasizing their unwavering commitment to patient care and community wellness. “Nurses are not just caregivers; we are advocates, educators, and change-makers,” she declared, urging her colleagues to remain steadfast in their mission.
Her words resonated deeply, inspiring nurses to continue serving with passion and excellence. Nurse Halima also commended the UMTH nursing team for their resilience, particularly in the challenging context of Borno State, where they deliver world-class care despite ongoing regional difficulties.
A Week of Celebration and Impact
The Street Walk and School Outreach marked the beginning of a weeklong celebration of International Nurses Week 2025 at UMTH. The NANNM unit has planned a series of events, including educational workshops, professional development sessions, and additional community service initiatives, all designed to honor nurses’ contributions and advance their skills.
UMTH, a leading tertiary healthcare institution with a 1,305-bed capacity and a reputation as a Center of Excellence in Nigeria’s North-East, continues to set the standard for nursing leadership and community impact. The hospital’s commitment to training, research, and outreach aligns seamlessly with the goals of INW 2025, making this celebration a powerful platform for showcasing nursing excellence.
Why Nurses Matter
Nurses are the heartbeat of healthcare, providing compassionate care, advocating for patients, and driving public health initiatives. Events like the UMTH Street Walk and School Outreach highlight their role in bridging healthcare gaps and inspiring future generations. In a region like Borno, where challenges such as insurgency have strained resources, nurses’ resilience and dedication are even more critical. Their ability to educate communities, promote health, and deliver high-quality care strengthens the entire healthcare ecosystem.
The energy and impact of UMTH’s INW 2025 kickoff are a call to action for nurses across Africa to connect, share knowledge, and grow together. Join the continent’s largest nursing community to network with peers, exchange ideas, and be part of a movement to elevate nursing across the continent
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