Nurses, represented by the National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives, Abuja chapter, staged a protest on Monday against the recent verification certification guidelines introduced by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN).
Expressing their discontent, the nurses condemned the guidelines, labeling them as impediments to their career advancement and freedom. They urged the council to prioritize nurses’ welfare, address salary disparities, staff shortages, and uphold their rights.
The demonstration, which took place at the NMCN’s office in Abuja, was in response to the council’s circular issued on February 7, 2024, revising the verification process for nurses and midwives. This action followed reports of the deactivation of the verification portal on the NMCN’s website since December 2023.
The circular outlined several requirements for verification, including a non-refundable fee for applications, a minimum of two years post-qualification experience, active practicing licenses, and letters of good standing from relevant authorities. Additionally, the processing time for verification applications was extended to a minimum of six months, with implementation effective from March 1, 2024.
During the protest, nurses and midwives brandished placards with various messages, including calls to address unemployment, quackery, and welfare issues within the nursing profession. They adamantly opposed the new verification rules, emphasizing the challenges nurses already face and urging the NMCN to reconsider its stance.