The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) president, Joe Ajaero, has reaffirmed the union’s commitment to support Nigerian nurses.

Mr Ajaero made the commitment on Wednesday at the eighth Quadrennial Delegates’ Conference of the National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives (NANNM) in Abuja.

He commended the nurses and midwives for their resilience and dedication to service, stating that they embodied the highest ideals of shared humanity.

Mr Ajaero lauded NANNM’s service and commitment to the labour struggle, acknowledging their vital role in keeping NLC strong and vibrant.

The conference is themed,” Delivering Quality Healthcare in the Face of Economic Hardship; The Roles and Responsibilities of Nurses.”

Mr Ajaero, who said the theme of the conference was apt, highlighted the challenges faced by the association and workers’ organisations.

Former NLC president Ayuba Wabba emphasised the multifaceted roles of nurses, including emotional support, and called for increased employment to meet the World Health Organisation’s recommendation of one nurse to five patients.

NANNM’s national president, Michael Nnachi, expressed concern over the impact of unfriendly words and hate speech on the association’s image and leaders.

He stressed the importance of prioritising members’ welfare and engaging the government to provide better conditions for Nigerian nurses and midwives.

The conference is expected to usher in a new national executive for NANNM, who will serve for three years.

(NAN)