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Dr. Dorothy Odetola, an expert in Community Health Nursing from the University of Ibadan, has raised concerns about the acute shortage and mass emigration of skilled healthcare personnel especially Nurses in Nigeria.
Speaking at the induction of the first 15 graduate nurses of McPherson University, Seriki Sotayo, Dr. Odetola highlighted that over 57,000 nurses had migrated from Nigeria between 2017 and 2022.
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This exodus has exacerbated the healthcare crisis, with one nurse now caring for 60 to 80 patients, rather than the ideal one nurse per patient ratio.
Dr. Odetola emphasized the urgent need for the government to implement viable solutions to curb the ongoing emigration of healthcare professionals, which is severely impacting the healthcare system in Nigeria.
During the event, the oath of practice was administered by Dr. Faruk Umar Abubakar, Registrar of the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN), who was represented by Mrs. Kemi Awe.
In his address, Dr. Abubakar reminded the newly inducted nurses of the high expectations society places on them as healthcare providers. He urged them to uphold the standards of the profession and to be open to learning from senior colleagues during their internships, which would also prepare them for pursuing higher degrees in nursing.
Professor Francis Igbasan, Vice-Chancellor of McPherson University, advised the new nurses to apply the practical and people management skills they had acquired during their education.
He stressed the importance of empathy, clear communication, care, and emotional intelligence in nursing. Professor Igbasan also encouraged them to seek mentors and role models who could guide and support them as they embark on their careers, reminding them that they would be entrusted with the care of patients during some of the most vulnerable moments of their lives.
He concluded by expressing his confidence in the abilities of the newly inducted nurses, urging them to be patient with themselves as they grow in their profession, and to always remember the importance of kindness and compassion in their work.
