The Ondo State Council of the National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives (NANNM) has called on the state government to urgently employ more health workers, warning that the shortage of manpower is crippling hospitals and primary healthcare centres across the state.
At the maiden Leadership Conference for Nurses on Grade Level 12 and above, held over the weekend, Ondo NANNM Chairman, Comrade Felix Orobode, said the Lucky Aiyedatiwa-led administration must treat recruitment and the welfare of health workers as a priority.
“We appeal for urgent interventions in areas such as the recruitment of more health workers, provision of modern equipment, enforcement of the WHO organogram in PHCs, correction of errors in call duty allowance at UNIMEDTH, prompt release of pending 2022 HMB conversion letters, uniform allowance implementation, and appointment of more nurses into political positions,” Orobode said.
Over 600 Nurses Attend Leadership Conference
The conference, which brought together more than 600 nurses from across Ondo State, focused on equipping nurse leaders with the skills and strategies required to lead effectively in clinical, administrative, political, and union roles.
According to Orobode, the training was designed to prepare nurses for greater influence in health policy and governance, improve healthcare delivery, and uphold the dignity of the profession.
“Leadership in nursing is no longer an option but a necessity,” he added.
Government Response
Responding to the demands, Ondo State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Banji Ajaka, acknowledged the critical role nurses play and assured them that the government is already rehabilitating and upgrading health facilities in line with Governor Aiyedatiwa’s vision for a modern, responsive healthcare system.
“This administration values the sacrifices of our nurses, and your welfare remains a top priority,” Ajaka said.
High-Level Attendance
The conference attracted key stakeholders and top government officials, including representatives of the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Taiwo Olumide Fasoranti, and the Head of Service, Mr. Bayo Philip. Others in attendance were the Chairman of the Hospitals Management Board, Dr. Olusegun Victor Ategbole, and the Director-General of the Ondo State Contributory Health Scheme, Dr. Abiodun Oyeneyin, among others.
Why It Matters
With Nigeria facing a severe shortage of health workers, Ondo’s situation highlights the broader national crisis. Effective healthcare delivery depends not only on infrastructure upgrades but also on a well-staffed and motivated workforce.
NANNM’s call for urgent recruitment serves as a reminder that without addressing manpower gaps, even the best policies and facilities may fall short of meeting the healthcare needs of the people.
Fellow Nurses Africa is the independent voice of African nursing, we educate, inform and support nurses across Africa.
