Dame Francisca Okafor, the Director of Nursing at the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, called on nursing graduates to prioritize serving their country over seeking opportunities abroad. Her remarks were made during the seventh combined convocation ceremony of the School of Psychiatric Nursing at Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Aro, Abeokuta. The event celebrated the graduation of 619 students from 14 sets, spanning from 2009/2010 to 2022/2023.
Okafor emphasized the importance of mental health professionals in Nigeria, particularly given the rising incidences of depression and substance abuse. She highlighted the critical need for trained psychiatric nurses to stay and provide care to Nigerians facing mental health challenges.
"Given the current economic hardships leading to increased mental health issues, it's vital for our nursing professionals, especially those trained in mental health, to remain here and offer the necessary care," Okafor stated. "While I celebrate your academic achievements, I urge you to stay and care for our people. Who will help the youth struggling with drug abuse if everyone leaves?"
Acknowledging the need for improved working conditions for nurses, Okafor stressed that patriotism and sacrifice are essential. "The government is working on enhancing your work environment, but we must remember that Nigeria is our home, and no sacrifice is too great in serving our nation," she added.
Okafor advised those determined to seek opportunities abroad to follow the proper channels. "Many Nigerian nurses abroad end up in menial jobs despite their qualifications because they were more focused on leaving rather than following the right procedures."
She encouraged the graduates to apply their training to demystify mental illness and work in accordance with the new Mental Health Act signed into law in 2022.
Dr. Afis Agboola, the hospital’s Provost and Medical Director, urged the graduates to be exemplary ambassadors of the institution and to use their expertise to make a positive impact on mental health care in Nigeria. He also called for more support from public-spirited individuals and corporate organizations to address funding and infrastructure challenges faced by the institution.
Dr. Faruk Abubakar, Registrar and Chief Executive Officer of the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN), represented by Mrs. Folashade Awe, Director of Planning and Statistics, advised the graduates to uphold the highest standards of nursing care in line with global practices. "Your commitment to learning, empathy, and providing the best care to your patients will make a significant difference in the lives of many," Abubakar said.
No comments:
Post a Comment