Fellow Nurses Africa | Lagos, Nigeria | 28 October, 2025
The African Nursing Activists (ANA) have called for the legal protection of the professional title “Nurse (Nr.)”, urging African governments and nursing regulatory bodies to act decisively against its misuse by untrained individuals.
In a new Position Statement on the Protection of the Title “Nurse (Nr.)”, ANA emphasized that only individuals who have completed approved nursing programs, are licensed by recognized Nursing and Midwifery Councils or Boards, and are authorized to practice should bear the title.
> “Its misuse by unqualified persons undermines professional integrity and threatens public safety,” the group stated.
ANA warns that the growing misuse of the title ‘Nurse’ by untrained individuals has led to compromised patient safety and public mistrust in healthcare systems. The group says protecting the title is not merely a professional matter but a public health necessity.
The statement highlights four key priorities:
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Public Protection: Ensuring anyone called “Nurse (Nr.)” is trained, licensed, and accountable.
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Professional Accountability: Upholding ethical and professional standards within the nursing workforce.
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Legal Enforcement: Criminalizing false representation of the title.
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Public Awareness: Educating communities about the risks of engaging unqualified practitioners.
ANA calls on African governments, health ministries, and nursing councils to:
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Legislate and enforce title protection.
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Sanction offenders and enabling institutions.
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Educate the public on nursing qualifications and professional roles.
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Support advocacy efforts to uphold nursing integrity.
“Every legitimate nurse must unite to defend this earned title built on education, licensure, and ethical service. Misuse of the title is not only a professional violation but a threat to public health,” ANA said.
ANA’s stance aligns with the International Council of Nurses (ICN) position on the protection of the nursing title. Read ICN’s Policy on Title Protection
About African Nursing Activists (ANA)
The African Nursing Activists (ANA) is a coalition of registered nurses across Africa advocating for professional integrity, ethical practice, and patient safety within nursing.
Media Contact: **Mail: africannursingactivists@gmail.com Phone: +234-813-509-1283
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