Kwara NANNM Warns Against Use of Student Nurses as Strike Cover-Up

Amid the ongoing nationwide seven-day warning strike by the National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM), the Kwara State chapter of the association has issued a stern warning to health institutions in the state against deploying student nurses and nursing interns as substitutes for striking registered nurses.

In a statement issued in Ilorin on Wednesday, the state Secretary of NANNM, Marcus Lucas, expressed concern over credible reports that some hospitals were attempting to fill the gap left by striking professionals with unqualified personnel.

“We have received disturbing reports that some health facilities are trying to assign the responsibilities of registered nurses to student nurses on clinical postings and intern nurses. Let it be clear, this is unacceptable,” the statement read.

Lucas emphasized that such actions pose serious risks to patient safety and undermine the integrity of the nationwide industrial action, which was launched to demand better working conditions, fair remuneration, and professional recognition for nurses across the country.

“Under no circumstances should any student nurse or intern be permitted to perform the duties of licensed professionals during this period. It not only endangers lives but constitutes a direct act of sabotage against our collective struggle,” he warned.

The association further cautioned that any Head of Department (HOD) found complicit in encouraging or authorizing this practice would be held personally accountable and face severe disciplinary action.

The Kwara chapter’s warning comes on the heels of the national body’s strike, which has seen nurses across Nigeria withdraw their services to push for long-overdue reforms. Earlier this week, the Minister of Labour, Muhammadu Dingyadi, appealed to the association to suspend the strike and return to dialogue a call that has so far not reversed the industrial action.

Meanwhile, the Kwara NANNM urged its members to remain steadfast, united, and focused on the cause, assuring them that the association is committed to securing better conditions for the nursing profession.

“Our strength lies in our solidarity. Let us continue to stand firm until our voices are heard and our demands are addressed,” the statement concluded.