The Federal Capital Territory Administration ( FCTA) has said that it would do everything required to ensure that nursing and midwifery add more value to the health systems.

The Minister of State, Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Dr Mariya Mahmoud, disclosed this in Abuja on Tuesday when she addressed participants at the Biennial Conference of the Commonwealth Nurses and Midwives Federation.

According to Mahmoud, “Nurses and midwives are the backbone of healthcare systems”.

She also said that they play an indispensable role in providing frontline services and improving health outcomes.

“As a medical practitioner, I recognised that nurses and midwives are often the first point of contact for patients and, in many cases, the most consistent providers of care.

“Their dedication, compassion, and professionalism continue to save lives daily,” she stated.

She also noted that empowering nurses and midwives is essential to achieving universal health coverage and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

While she commended the Federation for its consistent advocacy, professional development initiatives, and efforts in promoting best practices across member countries, she described its role in fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange as invaluable.

In his welcome remarks, the National President of the National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives (NANNM), Comrade Haruna Mamman, noted that the unwavering support and endorsement of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration have been the cornerstone that made hosting the global event a reality.

According to him, “Your presence and support for this conference underscore your commitment to not just Nigerian healthcare, but to global health solidarity.

“From strengthening primary healthcare infrastructure to advancing health insurance coverage, and prioritising the welfare of health workers, your tenure is already leaving an indelible mark.”