The West African Postgraduate College of Nurses and Midwives (WAPCNM), Nigeria Chapter, has called on the Federal Government to strengthen the welfare and support systems for nurses and midwives across the country.
The association emphasized that improving nurses’ welfare would directly enhance the quality of healthcare delivery nationwide.
Dr. Lilly-West Buloala, Chairman of the Nigerian Chapter, made the appeal during the 25th Annual General Meeting and Scientific Conference held in Abuja.
The theme of the conference is: “Healthy Nurses, Healthier Patients: Advancing Employee Assistance Programmes and Health Insurance in Nigeria.”
Buloala highlighted that the wellbeing of nurses is intrinsically linked to the wellbeing of the patients they serve.
“The wellness of nurses is inseparable from the wellness of patients. Nurses and midwives operate on the frontlines, often carrying the full weight of the health system.
“Yet, those sustaining public health face emotional exhaustion, occupational stress, limited support systems, and inadequate financial protection.
“This conference urges us to address these challenges with focus and courage. We must implement comprehensive, confidential, and stigma-free support services including counselling, mental health care, crisis intervention, and structured workplace assistance.
“Such measures will combat burnout, compassion fatigue, anxiety, and depression. A healthy workforce is essential—not optional. It is an economic necessity, a policy priority, and a moral obligation,” she said.
Buloala further stressed the urgent need for comprehensive health insurance to improve nurses’ access to medical care.
“It is a troubling contradiction that those safeguarding public health often struggle to access care for themselves and their families. Robust, accessible, and mandatory health insurance for all nurses and midwives is essential.
“Health insurance is more than a benefit—it provides security, protection, and helps retain a workforce under immense pressure,” she added.
Reflecting on the college’s 25-year journey, Buloala noted that the Silver Jubilee marks not just longevity, but resilience, intellectual rigor, and commitment to advancing health outcomes in West Africa.
“The conference will strengthen the evidence base, showcase global best practices, highlight innovative models, and create a strategic roadmap that places nurse wellness at the heart of national health policy,” she said.
Dr. Mohammed Yakatun, Executive Secretary of the college, stated that the event also serves as a platform to plan the college’s future direction.
He explained that the conference would help participants lay a stronger foundation to advance the college’s mission of promoting excellence in nursing.
Over the years, the college has made significant progress in online learning, strategic planning, extending fellowship programmes to other member countries, and increasing student enrollment.
Other notable achievements include acquiring land in Abuja for an office building and transitioning the college journal to an online platform, demonstrating a commitment to growth and modernization.