The Elegant Nurses Forum has strongly condemned the threat by the Nigerian Medical Association, NMA, to withdraw medical services should the proposed Nursing Consultant Cadre be approved, describing the move as “deeply concerning” and “a narrow-minded perspective that undermines the progress and professionalism of Nigeria’s healthcare system.”
In a press statement signed by Nurse Pius Adeyinka Okeyode and issued on behalf of the group, the forum warned that such opposition reflects resistance to global healthcare development trends and could further weaken Nigeria’s already strained health sector.
“The recent declaration by the Nigerian Medical Association threatening to withdraw their services should the Nursing consultant cadre be approved is deeply concerning and reflects a narrow-minded perspective that undermines the progress and professionalism of our healthcare system,” the statement read.
The group noted that several developed countries, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia, have long embraced advanced nursing roles such as Nurse Practitioners and Nurse Consultants, who work alongside physicians as equal partners in healthcare delivery.
According to the forum, “in the United States, Advanced Nurse Practitioners operate alongside physicians as highly qualified cadres, contributing significantly to patient care,” adding that similar systems are firmly established in other developed nations to promote better patient outcomes and more efficient health services.
The Elegant Nurses Forum cautioned against viewing professional advancement in nursing as a threat to medical doctors, stressing that healthcare thrives on collaboration rather than rivalry.
“Healthcare is a collaborative effort that thrives on mutual respect, specialization, and the recognition of every profession’s unique contribution. The notion that allowing nurses to advance into consultancy roles diminishes the value of doctors is unfounded and selfish,” the statement quoted.
The group further urged the NMA to embrace interprofessional collaboration, noting that countries that have adopted multidisciplinary healthcare models have recorded improved patient outcomes, increased efficiency, and stronger health systems.
It also called on medical doctors to respect professional boundaries, stating that “doctors and nurses are distinct professions with their own training, expertise, and responsibilities,” and that each profession should be allowed to operate and grow within its lawful scope of practice.
The forum concluded by appealing to all healthcare stakeholders to place national interest above professional rivalry.
“We call on the NMA and all stakeholders to prioritize the advancement of healthcare in Nigeria through collaboration and mutual respect. Let us work together to build a resilient, progressive, and inclusive health system that serves the best interests of our citizens,” the statement added.