Health commissioner underscores Nurses, Midwives’ Vital Role in Strengthening Healthcare

The Anambra State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike, underscored the indispensable contributions of nurses and midwives during a regional meeting of the National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM) held in Awka, Anambra State.

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Dr. Obidike emphasized that nurses and midwives are the largest workforce in Health and Social Care, playing a critical role in enhancing health outcomes and boosting the wider economy. He stated, “Nurses and midwives are central to Primary Health Care and are often the first and, in many cases, the only health professionals patients encounter. The quality of their initial assessment, care, and treatment is vital to patient well-being.”

Highlighting the community-centric nature of nursing, Dr. Obidike noted that these professionals understand local cultures, strengths, and vulnerabilities, allowing them to tailor effective interventions that address the specific needs of patients, families, and communities.

During the meeting, Dr. Obidike commended the association for convening in Anambra and reaffirmed their integral role in the administration of Governor Chukwuma Soludo. He announced that under Governor Soludo’s leadership, the state has employed over 500 nurses in less than three years—an achievement he described as “phenomenal.”

The Commissioner assured attendees that the current administration is committed to collaborating with the association to enhance healthcare service delivery in Anambra.

The Secretary General of NANNM, Dr. Abubakar, praised Anambra nurses for their significant contributions to the advancement of the profession in Nigeria and beyond, and expressed gratitude to the State Chairman, Mrs. Edith Onwuka, for her exemplary leadership.

Dr. Michael Nnachi, the National President of the association, urged nurses and midwives to maintain their commitment to professionalism, while urging the government to prioritize the needs of healthcare workers.

Mrs. Edith Onwuka highlighted the meeting as an annual opportunity to evaluate their work and share ideas to further improve service delivery.

In a goodwill message, Mrs. Perpetual Anene, Director of Nursing Services, acknowledged the remarkable achievements of the association. The state’s Head of Service, Barrister Theodora Igwegbe, represented by Mrs. Nkechi Nwosu, affirmed the critical role nurses and midwives play in healthcare and committed to addressing their welfare.

The event culminated in the commissioning of a Midwifery Office in Awka by Dr. Farouk Umar Abubakar, the association’s Secretary General.