NURSES AND MIDWIVES CALL ON FEDERAL GOVERNMENT TO ESTABLISH DISTINCT SALARY FRAMEWORK

The National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM) has urged the federal government to authorize the establishment of a distinct and dedicated salary structure named the Enhanced Nurses Salary Structure (ENSS). The association believes that such a measure would serve as an incentive for nurses and midwives, ultimately reducing the trend of professionals migrating out of the country.

These demands were put forth during the commencement of the International Nurses and Midwives’ Day in Abuja on Tuesday. Michael Ekuma Nnachi, the national president of NANNM, emphasized the need for the government to implement a salary increase for nurses to effectively counteract the issue of brain drain.

Nnachi disclosed that the association’s leadership has engaged in several discussions with the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) following public outcry over its recent circular on certificate verification for applicants seeking approval from foreign nursing boards/councils.

As a result of these discussions, Nnachi stated that the issuance of a letter of good standing will now be handled by the head of nursing services in respective facilities. Furthermore, the verification period of six months has been put on hold. The application fee remains unchanged, while the requirement of two years of post-qualification experience is now to be completed post-registration with the council.

In a related development, the House of Representatives has called on the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria to suspend the implementation of the ‘Revised Guidelines for Verification of Nurses and Midwives Certificates’ pending an investigation by the house. The house committees on Health Institutions and Legislative Compliance have been mandated to probe the controversy surrounding the revised guidelines and report their findings within six weeks.

Ojoma Akor and Balarabe Alkassim; From the News Source: DailyTrust