By Elizabeth Osayande

The founder, Direct Entry, DE4 of the Lagos State School of Midwifery Association, Mrs Rashedat Adenrele Omobitan, has stated that the exodus of nurses in Nigeria will reduce if better appreciation and change in attitude towards the profession are done.

Omobitan disclosed this during the 45th anniversary and the 5th reunion of the School recently in Lagos.

According to her: “Our coming together is to help ourselves, to help families, to help the less privileged, and help the needy in our society
So, as we forge ahead and expand in growth, I would like to implore all members to further commit themselves to the growth of this association by strengthening their sacrifice of time, talents and resources to the growth and development of our association.”

On the challenges facing the practice of Nursing, Omobitan noted that: “Japa syndrome is an issue, and we need to change our minds on it to practice here in Nigeria. There is also a need for better appreciation and remuneration for nurses. These will go a long way in encouraging them and addressing the japa syndrome. “

Collaborating DE4 founder and the president of the association, Dr. Ganiat Olabisi Disi, shared her insights on the challenges faced by nurses in Nigeria. “Most of the nurses here(Nigeria) want to leave, why because they are not being taken cared for, they are not being recognised. Nurses work tirelessly for 12 hours without enough pay.

“The government need to bring nurses to the table in terms of policies like allocation for building and equipping hospitals and clinics, and the government should give the nurses better welfare to continue rendering selfless service to their patients.

Speaking to members, Disi reiterated: “Our mission as an alumni association is simple yet powerful: to support the welfare of our alumni and to give back to the school and the community that helped us become the professionals we are today it’s through supporting families, artisans, small business owners, or students, we strive to make a meaningful impact. Our vision is for this alumni association to continue to thrive, not just in numbers, but in the reach of our impact. We want to expand the number of people we can help and to continue supporting nursing students, starting in 2025.”

Meanwhile, the anniversary which featured fundraising amongst the sets, saw funfair and commederie among different sets who attended across the globe both physically and virtually.