Nurses Protest Against New Certificate Verification Guidelines
Nurses affiliated with the National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM), FCT Chapter, staged a protest on Monday against the newly released certificate verification guidelines by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN). The protest, held within the premises of the NMCN in Abuja, was in response to the circular issued by the council on February 7, which outlined revised procedures for certificate verification.
The circular, signed by Dr. Faruk Abubakar, Registrar of the council, outlined various requirements for verification, including a non-refundable fee for applications, minimum post-qualification experience, active practicing licenses, and letters of good standing from employers and training institutions. The implementation of the guidelines is set to commence on March 1, 2024.
During the protest, nurses voiced their discontent with what they perceived as restrictions on their career opportunities and appealed to the council to reverse the new rules. Placards held by protesters conveyed messages advocating for improvements in nurses’ welfare, addressing unemployment, combating quackery, and enhancing healthcare standards.
Mrs. Cynthia Adeyeri, speaking on behalf of the protesting nurses, emphasized the need for government intervention to address the challenges faced by nurses, including poor welfare, inadequate staffing, and substandard healthcare infrastructure. She urged dialogue between government authorities and nurses to understand the root causes of their grievances and explore solutions to improve the healthcare sector.
Another nurse, Isioma Alexis, expressed opposition to the circular issued by the nursing council, citing concerns about the implications of the new guidelines on nurses’ mobility and professional development. She called for a reversal of the circular and a return to previous practices that better aligned with nurses’ interests and aspirations.
In response to the protesters, Dr. Farouk Abubakar assured them that their grievances would be addressed promptly. He pledged to review their concerns and promised a comprehensive response within a few days. Dr. Abubakar emphasized the council’s commitment to advancing the interests of Nigerian nurses while ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.
As the dialogue between nurses and regulatory authorities continues, the outcome of these discussions will be crucial in shaping the future direction of nursing practice in Nigeria. The protest underscores the importance of stakeholder engagement and collaborative efforts to address systemic challenges and promote a conducive environment for healthcare professionals and patients alike.
