The Plateau State Chapter of the National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM) said the State need over 1,000 additional Nurses to perform optimally and deliver effective healthcare Service.

The Association decried the shortage of Nurses in the Health Facilities across the State. The group disclosed that over 500 Nurses have retired since 2012 without replacement and said that is adversely affecting service delivery a situation it described as pitiable.

Speaking during a Press Conference to mark the 2020 International Year of the Nurse and Midwife set aside by the World Health Assembly which held at Nurses Green House Yingi Jos, the Plateau State Chairman of the Association, Nrs Briskila D. Dabit while appreciating Gov. Simon Lalong for giving approval to Plateau State Specialist Hospital and Plateau State Hospitals Management Board to employ health Workers appealed to the State Government to expedite such action to employ reasonable number of Nurses to address the manpower deficit being experienced across the State. She said the situation at the Local Government Areas is pathetic saying Nurses and Midwives were last employed in 2006.

“As we strive hard twards l Universal Health Coverage by 2030, the world needs additional 9million Nurses to compliment those already working and the ones that will retire before then. As such we call on Government at all levels to give a waiver to health institutions to replace any health worker particularly Nurses that retire in other to mitigate the gross shortage of this workforce” She said.

Nrs Briskila said despite numerous challenges confronting Nurses, they have remain committed to their duties. She urged members to continue to be more professional and diligent in discharging their responsibilities.

Speaking at the occasion, Nrs Ezekiel Magmang, Chairman of the Central Planning Committee spoke on the critical roles played by the Health Workers and the need for greater attention for optimal service delivery.

Director Nursing Services Plateau State Ministry of Health, Nrs Ladi Davou Zuh commended Health Workers for their contributions to Nation building and improved health of the citizens. She urged them to discard all negative tendencies, be more united; professional and diligent in the discharge of their duties as they serve humanity.

The theme of the event is “Nursing a Voice to Lead, Nursing the World to health

The Association will hold a Public Lecture at Eliel Centre on Thursday 19th November, 2020.

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Plateau State Needs Over 1,000 Additional Nurses for Effective Delivery of Healthcare Services – Plateau NANNM