Posted on: Wed 26-11-2025

National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM) Additional Information on Nurses Consultant Cadre 

 

Introduction

• NANNM submits this memorandum in support of the creation and recognition of a Consultancy Cadre for Nurses and Midwives in the national scheme of service. This aligns with global best practices and reflects commitments in the recent MoU between NANNM and the Federal Government.

 

What is a Consultant Nurse/Consultant Midwife?

• A Consultant Nurse or Consultant Midwife is a highly specialised practitioner with advanced clinical expertise, academic excellence, leadership ability, and capacity to influence professional standards. Roles include advanced practice, mentorship, research, quality improvement, and advisory responsibilities.

 

Justification for the Consultancy Cadre in Nigeria

• Alignment with WHO and ICN global standards
• High disease burden requiring specialist nursing roles
• Underutilised pool of highly trained Nigerian nurses (MSc, PhD, Fellows)
• Proven improvements in outcomes where specialist nurses are deployed
• Equity with other health professions that already have consultancy pathways

 

International Precedents

Countries already practicing Consultant Nursing roles:

• United Kingdom-Nurse Consultants since 2000
• United State-APRNs and Clinical Nurse Specialists
• Canada-Consultant-level Clinical Nurse Specialists
• Australia & New Zealand-Nurse Practitioners and Consultant Nurses
• South Africa-Advanced Nurse Practitioners
• Kenya-Advanced Practice Nurses

 

Benefits to the Health System

• Improved clinical outcomes and patient safety
• Strengthened emergency and specialised care
• Enhanced maternal and neonatal survival
• Stronger clinical governance structures
• Optimal use of senior nursing expertise

 

Find the attached from the West African College for further information.

Thank you

 

Signed

Dr. T.A. Shettima

General Secretary

 

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