The Ondo State branch of the National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives (NANNM) has urged the state government to quickly employ more health workers to solve the shortage of manpower in hospitals and primary health centres across the state.
The group also called on Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s administration to make the recruitment and welfare of health workers a priority, saying quality healthcare cannot be achieved without a well-motivated and well-staffed workforce.
Speaking at the maiden Leadership Conference for Nurses on Grade Level 12 and above, the state chairman of NANNM, Felix Orobode, appealed for better training and capacity building to improve service delivery in Ondo State.
In a statement signed by the council’s Public Relations Officer, Lucky Aremu, Orobode listed the urgent areas that need government attention. These include: recruiting more health workers, providing modern equipment, enforcing the WHO organogram in PHCs, correcting errors in call duty allowance at UNIMEDTH, releasing pending 2022 HMB conversion letters, implementing uniform allowance, and appointing more nurses into political positions.
Orobode explained that the conference, which brought together over 600 nurses from across the state, was organized to retrain nurses and equip them with leadership skills.
“This is an important step in preparing nurse leaders and aspiring leaders with the knowledge and strategies needed to lead effectively in administration, politics, and union activities,” he said.
He stressed that leadership in nursing is no longer optional but necessary for influencing health policies, improving healthcare delivery, and protecting the dignity of the profession.
Orobode also praised the governor for his efforts to revitalize the health sector.
Responding to the nurses’ concerns, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Banji Ajaka, said the state government is already rehabilitating and upgrading health facilities in line with the governor’s vision for a modern and responsive healthcare system.
“This administration values the sacrifices of our nurses, and your welfare remains a top priority,” Dr. Ajaka said.
The conference was attended by top government officials, health leaders, and key stakeholders. These included representatives of the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Taiwo Olumide Fasoranti, and the Head of Service, Mr. Bayo Philip.
Other dignitaries present were the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Banji Ajaka, the Special Adviser on Health, Prof. Simidele Odimayo (represented), the Special Adviser on Labour Matters, Hon. Bola Taiwo (represented), 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 (represented).
