The Nigeria and Midwifery Council of Nigeria has said that the new certificate verification guideline for nurses is in the best interest of the nation.
On Sunday, nurses under the aegis of the National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives, Abuja chapter, on Monday, protested against the new verification certification guidelines released by the Nigeria and Midwifery Council of Nigeria.
The nurses expressed displeasure over what they described as an attempt to hinder their freedom to pursue career opportunities, asking the council to address nurses’ welfare, salary scale, shortage of staff, and other rights.
Participants in the protest called on the NMCN to not only reconsider these new guidelines but to also focus on addressing critical issues affecting the nursing profession, such as welfare, salary scales, staff shortages, and other rights fundamental to their work environment and professional satisfaction.
Addressing the nurses during the peaceful protest, the Registrar of the NMCN, Faruk Abubakar, said the nurses’ complaints have been heard and would be looked into.
According to him, “We have listened to you and we are going to address it in a short time, in a couple of days. I have listened to you and I have heard you. I want to acknowledge the way you are mobilised and I want to assure you that your documents will be looked at holistically and will address every issue.
“Nigeria is our only country, we don’t have any other country apart from Nigeria. Nobody is against you travelling and whatever policy that is coming on board is in the best interest of Nigerians.
“You have written your complaints and we will look at them one by one and get back to you”.
He added that the council is not against the nurses and midwives travelling out of the country.
