Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi commended Nigerian nurses and midwives for their vital contributions to the nation’s healthcare system. He issued the message on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, to mark World Nurses Day.
Peter Obi described nurses as the heart of Nigeria’s health sector. He highlighted the critical roles they played in healthcare delivery across the country.
“I would like to take a moment to appreciate all the nurses and midwives in our dear nation, who occupy a very special place and play very critical roles in our health sector,” Obi stated.
He noted that he had consistently supported schools and colleges of nursing and midwifery nationwide. Obi explained that he took these steps because he understood the profession’s importance to national development.
“Over the years, I have traversed different corners of our nation supporting different schools and colleges of nursing and midwifery because I understand the inevitable role you play in our healthcare delivery,” he said.
Peter Obi acknowledged the difficult working conditions many nurses faced. These included poor environments, equipment shortages, and high patient-to-nurse ratios.
“Nigerian nurses work under some of the toughest conditions with dignity and courage. From physical and mental stress to high patient-to-nurse ratios, to lack of equipment and poor working environments, your resilience keeps our health sector going,” Obi added.
He also recognised the achievements of Nigerian nurses abroad. Many excelled in research and clinical practice, thereby raising the country’s profile internationally.
Peter Obi pledged continued and increased support for the profession. He promised greater focus on education and training.
“My firm commitment to you all remains this — we will build a New Nigeria where your hard work and sacrifices will never go unnoticed. We will invest in your education and training to ensure that you remain competitive on the global stage,” he stated.
The former Anambra State governor ended his message with a vision of a nation that values healthcare workers’ contributions. His remarks came as part of ongoing advocacy for stronger investments in Nigeria’s health sector.
