The recent conference titled “Our Nurses, Our Future” highlighted Nigeria’s battle with brain drain in the nursing sector. At the event, attended by dignitaries including Abubakar, it was acknowledged that Nigeria ranks seventh among countries grappling with a severe shortage of health workers. Abubakar emphasized the necessity of a migration policy to tackle this challenge, emphasizing that addressing facility provision, welfare, insurance, and working conditions are key factors to prevent brain drain. He advocated for increased nurse recruitment, stating that adequate investments and training are essential.
Mr Ayuba Wanna, former President of the Nigeria Labour Congress, stressed the importance of fair salaries, particularly after the removal of fuel subsidies. Dr Olusade Adesola, Permanent Secretary of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), voiced strong support for nurses and their role in the healthcare sector. Khadijat-Toyin Musah, the keynote speaker, highlighted the gap between nursing education and practice, underscoring the need for greater alignment between theory and practical skills.
The event also saw Comrade Deborah Yusuf, Chairman of NANNM, FCT Chapter, calling for improved education and training opportunities for nurses. Yusuf emphasized the significance of well-equipped nurses and urged enhanced welfare packages to motivate them. While the conference recognized the urgency of addressing nurse migration, experts underline the need for holistic systemic improvements in Nigeria’s healthcare sector to provide nurses with a supportive environment that fosters their skills and dedication.
