FCT Nurses Week: HSES, HMB honour Nurses’ Role in Healthcare and Economy

By: Winnie Tanu
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Nurses Week was commemorated in grand style as the Hospitals Management Board (HMB) and the Health Services and Environment Secretariat (HSES) honoured the vital role of nurses in healthcare and the economy.
This year’s event, themed “Our Nurses, Our Future: Caring for Nurses Strengthens Economies,” unfolded in two impactful phases.
Though the global celebration traditionally falls on May 12th, the FCT marked the occasion later in the month, retaining its significance and spirit.
Director General of the HMB, Dr. Olugbenga Bello, while welcoming participants, applauded the Nursing Department for its unwavering commitment, dedication, and professionalism.
He expressed pride in the department’s contributions, noting that their consistent excellence continues to elevate the Board’s standards.
In his closing remarks, Dr. Bello emphasized that the event underscored the indispensable role of nurses in both health delivery and national development, calling for continuous recognition and empowerment of the profession.
At the second phase of the celebration, Permanent Secretary of the HSES, Dr. Baba Gana Adam, praised nurses and interns for their selfless commitment to care.
“They can never be paid enough,” he remarked, while pledging continued support for institutionalizing the event as an annual tradition.
Dr Adam further proposed introducing awards for outstanding contributions, especially in debate sessions that brought vibrancy to the celebration.
A highlight of the event includes compelling case presentations from four secondary health facilities, offering insightful perspectives to the programme, shedding light on complex conditions such as congestive cardiac failure, lymphoma, placenta accreta, and sickle cell anaemia.
The event also featured lively debate sessions, free medical check-ups, and patient referrals, further highlighting the multifaceted role nurses play in public health.