The federal government has approved expanding annual admissions into nursing schools across the country from approximately 20,000 to 50,000 students as part of its commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s healthcare workforce and expanding educational opportunities for young Nigerians.

The Ministry of Information and National Orientation, in a statement on Tuesday, said the initiative is part of the government’s broader reforms in the education and healthcare sectors aimed at developing the skilled workforce required for national development.

According to the ministry, the strategic intervention is designed to create more admission opportunities for aspiring healthcare professionals, address the shortage of nurses and other medical personnel, strengthen healthcare services nationwide, and invest in the human capital needed to drive economic growth and sustainable development.

“The programme is expected to benefit students, parents, healthcare institutions, communities, and indeed every Nigerian by producing more trained professionals capable of meeting the country’s growing healthcare needs.

“With the expansion, healthcare institutions will have access to a larger pool of skilled and motivated personnel, resulting in improved service delivery, stronger healthcare systems, and better health outcomes for citizens across the country,” the ministry said.

The Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris, who emphasised the importance of strengthening the nation’s health workforce, said the strength of every nation’s healthcare system begins with the quality and availability of its healthcare professionals. 

Mr Idris said, “By expanding admissions into nursing and other health training programmes, the federal government is investing in the talents of our young people, strengthening our health workforce, and building a healthier, more resilient Nigeria. 

“This initiative reflects our commitment to creating opportunities for citizens while laying the foundation for sustainable national development.”