Why I protested against ban on nurses from travelling abroad – Ex-LP Presidential Candidate, Obi

By Uchenna Okeh Abakaliki

The former Presidential Candidate of Labour Party, LP, in the last general election, Peter Obi on Thursday gave reasons why he protested against the ban on Nurses in the country from travelling abroad by the Nurses and midwives council of Nigeria, NMCN. 

Obi made this known while addressing a mammoth crowd of nursing students and staff of the Mater Misericordiae College of Nursing Sciences, Afikpo, Ebonyi State, where he donated ₦10 million for infrastructural improvement in the college.

The ex-LP presidential candidate, Obi said that he has visited over 50 nursing schools in Nigeria with the aim of investing in the nation’s health institutions, and however, noted the vital role of healthcare professionals in national development, urging them to remain dedicated to their training. 

He reiterated that investing in human capital remains the surest way to build a strong and prosperous Nigeria. The school’s management acknowledged his contributions, affirming that his understanding of societal challenges makes him well-suited to provide lasting solutions. 

Obi also applauded Ebonyi State government led by governor Francis Nwifuru for collaborating with the institution in the overall interest of the people. 

He urged students to take their studies seriously, especially in light of the projected shortage of healthcare workers. 

The former governor of Anambra State, Obi reiterated his committed supports to ensure that the right of nurses to seek better opportunities abroad is not hindered, and however, encouraged them to be like their Indian counterparts to find ways to contribute to their home country over time. He reminded them that, despite all challenges, “there is no place like home.”

Reflecting on Nigeria’s current state, Obi challenged leaders to ask themselves the critical question: what kind of country do they plan to bequeath to the younger generation? 

He lamented the hardships Nigerians, including students, face today and stressed the urgent need to reclaim society from those who have misgoverned it.

Earlier in a remark, the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Abakaliki, Most Rev. Peter Nworie Chukwu, described Mr. Peter Obi as a leader who understands Nigeria’s pressing needs and is well-equipped to address them. 

He asserted that despite, the country’s current challenges, hope remains alive with individuals like Obi.

Bishop Chukwu who was represented by the Diocesan Health Coordinator, Rev. Fr. Chidi Obasi, at the Mater Misericordiae College of Nursing Sciences, Afikpo, Ebonyi State emphasized the importance of strong leadership in shaping Nigeria’s future. 

He commended Obi for his commitment to education, healthcare, and poverty alleviation, sectors critical to national development.

The Nations News Nigeria reports that, Mater Misericordiae Hospital was founded in 1946, and remained one of the Nigeria’s oldest healthcare institutions, with its Schools of Nursing and Midwifery established in 1952 and 1953, respectively. 

Bishop Chukwu noted further that the college has trained thousands of nurses and midwives who serve in various capacities across the country and beyond. 

The hospital operates within the unique Catholic tradition, integrating academic excellence and moral discipline to produce well-rounded professionals.