Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has urged the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) to relax the rules for the verification and certification of nurses and midwives to enable them to compete globally. He made this call during his visit to the St. Philomena Midwifery and Nursing School in Benin City, where he donated N10 million to support the institution.
Obi emphasized that for Nigeria to overcome its economic challenges, the government must significantly invest in health, education, and human capital. He highlighted that development in countries regarded as developed is strongly linked to advancements in these three areas.
“Health, education, and poverty alleviation are the pillars of development. Investing in these areas is crucial for national progress. Good health leads to higher productivity, and education enhances individual capabilities,” Obi said. “When we lack investment in these critical sectors, we face crises.”
He also addressed concerns about the current certification process for nurses and midwives, urging for reforms to ensure global competitiveness. “The verification and certification process needs improvement. If we are facing brain drain, the solution is to invest in training and provide opportunities for these professionals to work globally,” Obi added.
Obi, who has supported 18 facilities across the country, reiterated the need for collective effort to improve the country’s situation. Rev. Fr. Jerome Idebe, Administrator of St. Philomena Hospital and School, expressed gratitude for Obi’s donation, promising that the funds would be used effectively.
