UGONSA

Monday, 30 March 2026

The Nursing Scope: Volume 9, Issue 1 is Out!

The University Graduates of Nursing Science Association (UGONSA) is pleased to announce the official release of Volume 9, Issue 1 of its esteemed peer-reviewed journal, The Nursing Scope (TNS). This publication represents the eleventh issue released since the journal’s revitalization five years ago, reflecting our continued commitment to advancing nursing scholarship, evidence-based practice, and interdisciplinary healthcare research.

Explore the Latest Research

This issue features high-quality, peer-reviewed articles addressing contemporary and impactful topics in nursing, medicine, and healthcare delivery. Each article contributes valuable insights aimed at strengthening clinical practice, education, and policy development. Readers are invited to explore the full articles through their respective Digital Object Identifiers (DOIs) provided below:

Abdulmumeen, I. O., Abdullateef, S., Olakunle, O., Abubakar, M. K., Ibraheem, M. A., Amosa, R., Abubakar, A. S. (2026). Knowledge and factors influencing spontaneous abortion among antenatal clinic attendees in Ilorin East, Nigeria. The Nursing Scope, 9(1), 1-12. ISSN: 2645-2936 (Online); 0795–6541 (Print). https://doi.org/10.59073/thenursingscope91/1-21

Obuezue, O.G., Udeh, N.N., Anarado, A., Madu, O.T. (2026). Diabetic retinopathy screening in Enugu, South-East Nigeria: A cross-sectional study of patients' barriers and practices. The Nursing Scope, 9(1), 22- 40. ISSN: 2645-2936 (Online); 0795–6541 (Print). https://doi.org/10.59073/thenursingscope91/22-40

Ojumu B.A. and Ishola A.G. (2026). Shifting attitudes: A mental health intervention to reduce stigma among Nigerian Students. The Nursing Scope, 9(1), 41- 57. ISSN: 2645-2936 (Online); 0795–6541 (Print). https://doi.org/10.59073/thenursingscope91/41-57

Oke, O.O. (2026). Effect of Breastfeeding Support App on the knowledge and practice of Exclusive Breastfeeding among Mothers in Selected Health Facilities in Ekiti State, Nigeria. The Nursing Scope, 9(1), 58 - 73. ISSN: 2645-2936 (Online); 0795–6541 (Print). https://doi.org/10.59073/thenursingscope91/58-73

Nwodoh, C.O. & Urom-Ndubuisi, U.C. (2026). Knowledge of service-area health centres and available healthcare services among residents of a South-East Nigerian state capital. The Nursing Scope, 9(1), 74- 93. ISSN: 2645-2936 (Online); 0795 – 6541 (Print). https://doi.org/10.59073/thenursingscope91/74-93

Ayalogu, O.S. & Nwodoh, C.O. (2026). Prevalence of random blood pressure categories and gender differences among health sciences undergraduates of a Nigerian university: a cross-sectional study. The Nursing Scope, 9(1), 94-109. ISSN: 2645-2936 (Online); 0795 – 6541 (Print). https://doi.org/10.59073/thenursingscope91/94-109

Awoyinka, M.F., Paul-Adoga, C.U., & Ohaeri, B.M. (2026). Infertility-related stress, coping strategies, fertility adjustment, and self-help practice among women attending selected gynaecological clinics in Ibadan: a pilot study. The Nursing Scope, 9(1), 110-131. ISSN: 2645-2936 (Online); 0795 – 6541 (Print). https://doi.org/10.59073/thenursingscope91/110-131

Ibu, J.M., Ibu, T.M., & Otorkpa, O.J. (2026). Development of a framework for facilitating the implementation of “prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV” through mentor mothers’ program in military hospitals in Nigeria. The Nursing Scope, 9(1), 132- 151. ISSN: 2645–2936 (Online); 0795–6541 (Print). https://doi.org/10.59073/thenursingscope91/132-152

Chikeme, P. C., Ezeh, C. W., Abonyi, E. O., Ani, P., & Ihudiebube-Splendor, C. (2026). Knowledge, attitude, and practice of nurse educators towards integrating research-based evidence into teaching methods in selected nursing training institutions in Enugu, Nigeria. The Nursing Scope, 9(1), 152 - 169. ISSN: 2645-2936 (Online); 0795–6541 (Print). https://doi.org/10.59073/thenursingscope91/153-171

Joseph, J. G., Mohammed, S., Daudu, M.J., Dele-Alonge, O.I. & Iliya, J. (2026). Health Providers’ Readiness for Health Education Service Provision in Primary Health Care Facilities, Kaduna State, Nigeria. The Nursing Scope, 9(1), 170- 190. ISSN: 2645-2936 (Online); 0795 – 6541 (Print). https://doi.org/10.59073/thenursingscope91/172-192

Nwafulundu, O. O., Eseropheroghene, D. O., Edeh, C. Nwakaego, & Uzor, C. B. (2026). Knowledge and utilisation of contraceptives among female undergraduate nursing students of Evangel University Akaeze, Ebonyi State. The Nursing Scope, 9(1), 191- 203. ISSN: 2645-2936 (Online); 0795 – 6541 (Print). https://doi.org/10.59073/thenursingscope91/193-205

Nwodoh, C.O., and Obiekwe, G.C. (2026). Willingness to own a nurse-led private business among selected undergraduate nursing students of a Nigerian University. The Nursing Scope, 9(1), 204- 224. ISSN: 2645-2936 (Online); 0795 – 6541 (Print). https://doi.org/10.59073/thenursingscope91/206-226

Open Access and Free Downloads

As an open-access journal, The Nursing Scope (TNS) provides unrestricted access to all published articles. Readers can visit our website at app.thenursingscope.org to view and download articles free of charge. Simply subscribe to the journal at no cost to gain access to unlimited article downloads.

Call for Papers

We are pleased to announce that submissions are now open for our next issue, Volume 9, Issue 2. We welcome a wide range of scholarly and professional contributions, including research articles, practice improvement articles, scientific reviews, case studies, clinical essays, academic essays, and other healthcare-related manuscripts. Authors who wish to publish with The Nursing Scope may submit their manuscripts via email at gnan2ugonsa@gmail.com or directly through the journal website by clicking the Submit Manuscript button.

UGONSA...Make a Positive Change!!!

EDITORIAL BOARD MEMBERS

Editor-in-Chief

Prof. (Mrs.) Ijeoma O. Ehiemere,

University of Nigeria; The Nursing Scope Main Editorial Office

Email: gnan2ugonsa@gmail.com; ijeoma.ehiemere@unn.edu.ng; ijeomere@yahoo.com.

Secretary

Dr. Goodluck I. Nshi, DNP, M.Ed, RPON, GANV, CCRN, NEA-BC, PMHNP-BC

Aspen University, Denver, CO, U.S.A.

Email: mekagoodluck@yahoo.com.

Assistant Secretary

Prof. Emmanuel Ejembi Anyebe

University of Ilorin, Nigeria

Email: ejembianyebe@gmail.com; anyebe.ee@unilorin.edu.ng.

Editors

Prof. Joseph Osuji

Mount Royal University, Canada

Email: josuji@mtroyal.ca; joseph.osuji@unn.edu.ng.

Prof. Mildred Edet John,

Garden City University College, Kumasi, Ghana

Email: miljohn2k@yahoo.com.

Prof. Omolola Oladunni Irinoye

Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria

Email: oirinoye@oauife.edu.ng; omololaoni@gmail.com.

Prof. Saleh Ngaski Garba

Bayero University, Kano – Nigeria

Email: sngarba.nur@buk.edu.ng; salenga2004@gmail.com

Prof. Emmanuel Ejembi Anyebe

University of Ilorin, Nigeria

Email: ejembianyebe@gmail.com; anyebe.ee@unilorin.edu.ng.

Ass Prof. Akon Emmanuel Ndiok

University of Calabar, Nigeria

Email: ndioka@unical.edu.ng. ; eakon9850@gmqil.com

Dr. Adenike Adebola Olaitan Olaniyi

University College Hospital, Ibadan

Email: adenikeolaniyi4@gmail.com.

Dr. Chijioke O. Nwodoh

University of Nigeria

chijioke.nwodoh@unn.edu.ng; cjontheweb@yahoo.com.

Dr. Nelson C. Okpua

Universiti Sains Malaysia, Timur Laut, Malaysia

nelson.okpua@student.usm.my.

Dr. Goodluck I. Nshi,

Aspen University, Denver, CO, U.S.A.

Email: mekagoodluck@yahoo.com.

Nurse Baidy Barry Afoi,

Bingham University PMB 0005 Karu, Nasarawa State, Nigeria

barry.afoi@binghamuni.edu.ng, afoibarry@gmail.com, afoibarry@yahoo.com.

Nurse Ogechukwu A. Nwigbo

Firstcare Beneavin House Hospital, Dublin, Ireland

nwigboogechukwu@gmail.com.

Nurse Opeyemi Idowu Ojo

Federal Medical Centre, Owo, Nigeria

bisopedow@gmail.com.

UNSTOPPABLE ARMY: UGONSA SALUTES NURSES, DECLARE THEM "IRON DOME" OF NIGERIA’S HEALTHCARE SECTOR

NEW YEAR MESSAGE: FROM BACKBONE TO ARCHITECT, BUILDING A NEW HEALTHCARE FUTURE IN 2026

Dear Esteemed Nurses,

Distinguished colleagues, members of UGONSA, courageous and gallant nurses of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, midwives, and professional compatriots across the length and breadth of our great nation, Nigeria. We stand today at the dawn of a new year, but more importantly, we stand at the precipice of a new era. We have crossed the bridge of 2025, a year that tested the very fabric of our resilience. As the sun rises on this new year, 2026, we extend to you not just greetings, but a salute. A salute to your resilience in the face of unimaginable pressure, and to your compassion in a climate of despair, and to your unwavering professionalism while standing on grounds that often feel faithless, unfaithful, treacherous, and deceitful to our hard work.

We have seen the economic tides turn, we watched the "Japa" wave turn from a stream into a tsunami, leaving our wards understaffed and our spirits stretched thin. Yet, we were the ones who held the fort when the walls were crumbling. We improvised when supplies ran dry. We became mothers, fathers, doctors, pharmacists, and counsellors to the Nigerian patient when the system failed them and as other professionals downed tools. We are the first to comfort the victims of insecurity, the frontline warriors against disease outbreaks, and the steadfast guardians of maternal and child health amidst systemic challenges. We are not just observers; we are living the reality. We are not just surviving Nigeria. We are the last remaining proof that this country still has a soul, and because you carry this burden, you deserve not just a salary, but a ‘throne’. You are the “Remnant Army" holding the lifeline of over 200 million Nigerians, and UGONSA declares you the Iron Dome of Nigeria’s healthcare.

To UGONSA members, the BNSc is our baseline, not our ceiling. In 2026, we must assert our intellectual authority. When you step into that ward, you step in as a master of your craft, not as a subordinate. We are University Graduates. We are Scientists. We are Clinicians. The world is moving toward Nurse-led clinics and independent consultancy. We must pursue specialisation relentlessly. We will also continue to fight until the internship and proper placement for our graduates are no longer treated as privileges, but as unalienable rights. We cannot pour from an empty cup, and we cannot save lives while we cannot afford to feed our families. This year, we must push for a dignified Nurses Salary Structure (NSS) and we shall partner with other stakeholders to ensure speedy implementation of the Nurse/Midwife Consultant cadre. The nurses' salary structure must be reviewed to match the inflation reality of 2026 and beyond. But beyond salary, we must become nurse-entrepreneurs. We must innovate. Let us patent our ideas, let us run our consultancy firms, let us own the healthcare space. The rebirth of the Nigerian Nurses from the ward to policymakers must materialise this year, and we must move from the frontlines to the forefront as architect of a new dawn in the Nigerian Health System. At UGONSA, we have made significant strides in projecting a good image of the nursing profession. We have worked tirelessly to promote and protect your interests, made meaningful strides in promoting the respectability of nursing, and advanced our profession through our international Journal, The Nursing Scope (www.thenursingscope.org), and we will intensify these efforts in 2026.

For too long, we have been called the "backbone" of the healthcare system. This is a noble title, but it is insufficient. A backbone is hidden, silent, and expected to merely support. But 2026 must mark the year the Nigerian Nurse evolves from being the backbone to becoming the architect, the visionary designer, the master builder of a new, resilient, and equitable healthcare future for Nigeria.

UGONSA charges you all not to let the harshness of the Nigerian economy break your professional posture. When donning your scrubs and wearing your white, you are wearing the hope of a nation. In 2026, let us be unstoppable in our pursuit of excellence. We are not just washing wounds; we are healing a nation. We are not just checking vitals; we are the vital signs of the Nigerian Healthcare Sector. Rise, Nigerian Nurses! The world is watching, and history is waiting for you to pick up the pen and write the next chapter.

We thank you for your perseverance and wish you a prosperous and fulfilling New Year.

UGONSA…! Make a Positive Change.

Signed:

NURSE OJO OPEYEMI NURSE P.O. ETENG

National President National Secretary

UGONSA GANV AND GANP AWARDS

The Grand Ambassador of Nightingale Virtue (GANV) and the Grand Advocate of the Nursing Profession (GANP) are two of the most prestigious honours conferred by the University Graduates of Nursing Science Association (UGONSA). The GANV Award represents the highest honour bestowed by UGONSA, while the GANP Award ranks as the second highest honour. The GANV Award is exclusively reserved for nurses who have demonstrated exceptional, sustained, and exemplary contributions to the growth, development, and advancement of the nursing profession—through leadership, scholarship, advocacy, service, and the promotion of professional excellence. GANV is the “Gold Medal “ of nursing within UGONSA and cannot be awarded to non-nurses. Conferment of the GANV Award automatically qualifies the awardee for induction into the UGONSA Nursing Hall of Fame.

In contrast, the GANP Award is conferred on members of the public who are not nurses but who have made significant and demonstrable contributions to the advancement, visibility, development, and welfare of the nursing profession.

The GANV and GANP Awards are conferred exclusively by the UGONSA National Congress during the National Professional Conference and Scientific Updates (NAPCON). At sub-national levels, UGONSA Zonal and State Congresses are authorized to confer: ANV (Ambassador of Nightingale Virtues) on nurses, and ANP (Advocate of the Nursing Profession) on members of the public, in recognition of exceptional contributions to nursing at the zonal or state level.

List of GANV and GANP Award Recipients (Since Inception in 2015)

Hon. Chinedu Ogah, OON – GANP
NAPCON, Abakaliki, 2015
Dr. Onwe Ogah Emeka – GANP
NAPCON, Abakaliki, 2015
Rev. Augustine O. Obarisagbon – GANV
NAPCON, Kaduna, 2019
Mrs. A. O. Olanipekun – GANV
NAPCON, Kaduna, 2019
Dame Francisca Okafor – GANV
NAPCON, Abakaliki, 2022
Lady Lilian U. Uhiara – GANV
NAPCON, Abakaliki, 2022
Prof. Ijeoma O. Ehiemere – GANV
NAPCON, Akure, 2024
Prof. Omolola O. Irinoye – GANV
NAPCON, Akure, 2024
Chief (Hon.) Solomon E. O. Egwuenu – GANV
NAPCON, Akure, 2024
Dr. Goodluck Ikechukwu Nshi – GANV
NAPCON, Akure, 2024
Nurse Barry B. Afoi – GANV
NAPCON, Akure, 2024

The University Graduates of Nursing Science Association (UGONSA) remains an unwavering vanguard in the advancement of the nursing profession. The Association is committed to celebrating nurses, representing their collective interests, empowering them for value-added service delivery, and projecting their professional exploits to the global community.

In line with these guiding principles, UGONSA has institutionalized the enlistment of newly inducted Bachelor of Nursing Science (BNSc) graduates during their induction ceremonies. As part of this tradition, the Association confers the prestigious UGONSA Certificate of Outstanding Performance (UCOP) on deserving graduating students in recognition of excellence.

Over the years, the UCOP has been expanded into four core award categories, namely:

UCOP in Academics, awarded to the best graduating student;
UCOP in Leadership, awarded to the most outstanding student leader;
UCOP in Research, awarded to the graduate with exceptional distinction in research; and
UCOP in Character, awarded to the best-behaved graduating student.

In furtherance of its commitment to excellence and forward-thinking nursing practice, UGONSA plans to introduce an additional category—UCOP in Innovation—aimed at encouraging creativity and innovative thinking among nursing students, thereby laying a strong foundation for innovative professional practice after graduation.

In addition, the Association has demonstrated its commitment to rewarding excellence by doubling the cash value attached to the UCOP awards effective November 2025. Plans are also underway to further enhance the monetary value of these awards.

In view of prevailing economic realities and the expanding scope of UGONSA’s activities, the Association hereby notifies nursing students, Heads of Departments (HODs) of Nursing, and the wider nursing community that effective 1st January 2026, the induction enlistment fee shall be adjusted from ₦3,000 (Three Thousand Naira) to ₦5,000 (Five Thousand Naira).

UGONSA appreciates the continued support of all stakeholders. Together, we shall continue to reposition, re-engineer, and advance the nursing profession through purposeful and positive change.

Signed

Nurse O.I. Ojo Nurse P.O. Eteng

National President National Secretary

Nurse Consultant: UGONSA writes HCSF, counters NAMDA's Petition

The Head of Civil Service of the Federation (HCSF),

Federal Secretariat Complex,

Shehu Shagari Way, P.M.B. 248,

Garki, Central Business Area, Abuja.

Madam,

Official Response from the University Graduates of Nursing Science Association (UGONSA) to the Nigerian Association of Medical and Dental Academics (NAMDA) position on Consultant Cadre for other Healthcare Professions

To: The Honourable Head of Service, Federal Civil
Service of the Federation, and to all stakeholders in Nigeria’s health sector

UGONSA has read with grave concern the petition written to your office by the Nigerian Association of Medical and Dental Academics (NAMDA) tilted “PETITION ON THE THREAT TO PATIENTS SAFETY IN THE NATIONS’ HOSPITAL SYSTEM: THE NEED TO STOP THE CREATION OF UNNECESSARY AND ILEGAL CADRES OF HOSPITAL CONSULTANTS AT THE ONGOING NATIONAL COUNCIL ON ESTABLISHMENT MEETING HOLDING IN KANO”.

We categorically reject the assertion that creating regulated cadres of consultant nurses (or accredited advanced nursing roles) will “derail clinical management” or inherently put patients at risk. On the contrary, international evidence and authoritative policy bodies show that enabling nurses to practice at the top of their education and training strengthens health systems, improves access and patient outcomes, and is an essential response to workforce shortages (Institute of Medicine, 2010; Kennedy et al., 2012; Laurant et al., 2018; Royal College of Nursing [RCN], 2021; World Health Organization, 2021; American Association of Managed Care Nurses [AAMCN], 2025). Below, we state the facts, cite the evidence, and propose safe, practical policy safeguards for Nigeria.

1. The “consultant” title is not the exclusive preserve of medical doctors. It is used safely in other health systems: NAMDA argues that the title consultant in hospitals is unique to doctors and confers exclusive ultimate responsibility for patient care. The international reality is different. In the United Kingdom, for example, consultant-level nursing posts (commonly called Nurse Consultant) are an established, regulated senior clinical role with defined responsibilities, clinical leadership, service development, education, research, and professional governance, operating within multi-disciplinary teams (Royal College of Nursing [RCN], 2021).

2. Strong, high-quality evidence shows advanced nursing roles are safe and effective, and improve healthcare access, quality and satisfaction: Evidence-based summaries reach the following conclusions: A major Cochrane review and updates on nurse-led primary care show that substituting nurses for doctors in many primary-care tasks produces similar or better patient health outcomes and higher patient satisfaction, with no clear increase in harm (Laurant et al., 2018). Nurses tend to have longer consultations, and evidence shows at least equivalence for many conditions. Systematic reviews and mixed-methods evaluations of nurse consultant roles (UK and international literature) report improvements in service quality, patient experience, chronic disease management, and workforce development, while noting that well-designed role specification and outcome measurement are essential (RCN, 2021). Where roles are well-structured and evaluated, benefits follow. Reviews of advanced nursing practice reported consistent improvements in access, chronic disease self-management, and patient satisfaction when Advanced Practice Nurses (APNs), Nurse Consultants, or Clinical Nurse Specialists provide care (AAMCN, 2025). The evidence supports expanding appropriately trained nursing roles to meet unmet needs. Empirical evidence thus shows that when nurse consultant roles are regulated, educated, and integrated into team governance, outcomes are improved or equivalent to those of physician-led care across many services (Kennedy et al., 2012; Laurant et al., 2018; AAMCN, 2025).

3. Leading global policy bodies recommend nurses be enabled to work at full scope — Nigeria should align with those recommendations: The Institute of Medicine (IOM; now the National Academy of Medicine) landmark report The Future of Nursing: Leading Change, Advancing Health (2010) concluded that health systems must enable nurses to practice to the full extent of their education and training, expand opportunities for nurses to lead and redesign care, and increase the proportion of nurses with higher levels of education. The IOM made clear that removing scope-of-practice barriers and supporting advanced practice is vital to meet population needs. This remains a cornerstone reference for global health system workforce reform. The World Health Organization’s Global Strategic Directions for Nursing and Midwifery (SDNM) 2021–2025 likewise urges Member States to strengthen nursing education, regulation, leadership, and practice so nurses can contribute maximally to universal health coverage. That policy recognizes advanced nursing roles as part of the solution to workforce shortfalls and service gaps.

4. Nigeria has a demonstrable workforce gap — task-sharing and advanced nursing roles are proven, necessary mitigation strategies: Nigeria faces a severe physician shortage and large regional maldistribution of doctors. International comparisons and country data show physician densities in Nigeria are far below WHO-recommended levels; health system resilience demands complementary approaches. Deploying regulated advanced nursing roles is a proven strategy to expand access (particularly in primary care and underserved areas) without lowering standards. Example: where doctor supply is constrained, nurse consultants/nurse practitioners/advanced nurses in many countries provide primary care, emergency care, and chronic-disease management safely and cost-effectively, reducing waiting times, improving continuity of care, and improving outcomes.

5. The concerns NAMDA raises about accountability, scope, and budgets are addressable — regulation, accredited training, and governance can fix them: NAMDA’s letter raises three recurring fears: (A) loss of clinical accountability, (B) role confusion and conflict, and (C) budgetary bloat. UGONSA responds with practical, evidence-based policy solutions:

A. Legal and clinical accountability — solution: embed advanced nursing roles in statute and regulation. Define clearly (in law/regulation/appointment letters) where medical ultimate responsibility lies and where advanced nurses have autonomous authority (e.g., prescribing, diagnostics, counselling, rehabilitation) under defined scopes. International models use collaborative practice agreements, professional regulation, and hospital governance (credentialing, privileging, clinical guidelines) to ensure clarity.

B. Role clarity and team functioning — solution: adopt national competency frameworks, accredited postgraduate programmes (MSc/Doctoral/APN curricula), formal credentialing, and job descriptions that specify decision-making limits, referral triggers, and escalation pathways. The UK, Canada, Australia, and the US have used these governance mechanisms successfully.

C. Cost/budgeting concerns — solution: pilot with objective evaluation. Where advanced nursing roles reduce admissions and readmissions, improve chronic disease outcomes, or increase clinic throughput, any higher grade pay is offset by system gains (reduced avoidable admissions or readmissions, improved throughput). Evidence from multiple health systems indicates cost-effectiveness and cost reduction. Nigeria has the potential to cut healthcare costs through nurse consultants/advanced nurse practice cadres, as data from countries that have implemented it show.

6. International practice: how countries manage consultant/advanced nursing roles (short examples): United Kingdom (NHS) — Nurse Consultant posts exist within trusts with clear job plans: leadership, expert practice, education, and research. These are senior clinical roles defined by employers and regulated by the Nursing Council. They do not remove physician accountability for acts requiring a medical license.

United States & Canada — Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs), Nurse Practitioners (NPs), and Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNSs) deliver primary care, emergency triage, and specialist clinics under state/provincial regulation; many jurisdictions have independent prescribing and diagnostic authority after credentialing. Cochrane and other systematic reviews find equivalent or better outcomes for many services (Laurant et al., 2018).

Australia — Nurse practitioner roles operate with clear legislation and clinical governance; outcomes and access improvements are documented wherever nurse practitioners were introduced into underserved settings.

These examples show that titles alone are not the threat. The threat (or benefit) is defined by whether roles are accompanied by regulation, training and governance. Nigeria can adopt the best practices to improve the fortune of our distressed health system.

7. What UGONSA proposes (practical, safety-first roadmap): UGONSA is not asking for ad-hoc titles or tokenism. We propose a staged, defensible policy:

Legal/regulatory framework — the Federal Ministry of Health, working with the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN), National Assembly, and legal drafters, should define legal scopes for Advanced Practice Nurses/nurse consultant-level roles (titles, privileges, limits). This will remove ambiguity and make accountability explicit.

Accredited postgraduate training — all consultant nurses and advanced practitioners must complete accredited postgraduate programmes (master’s level or equivalent; doctoral capability for consultant-level practice as required) with defined competency outcomes.

Federal Ministry of Health Guided Credentialing & hospital privileging — hospitals must credential and privilege based on competencies; the Federal Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, should define staging protocols to guide referrals and escalations to higher levels of care.

Pilot programmes and evaluation — implement pilots in primary care deserts and tertiary specialty clinics with robust outcome measurement (safety, mortality, readmissions, patient satisfaction, cost) and publish results publicly.

Collaborative practice & clear patient safety protocols — define where medical ultimate responsibility applies (e.g., certain surgical interventions), and where advanced nurses may autonomously manage care (e.g., chronic disease clinics, triage, wound care, palliative care) with mandated referral and escalation rules.

National workforce planning — use the WHO SDNM and IOM recommendations as frameworks to scale advanced practice where workforce shortages are most acute.

8. Direct rebuttals to some specific claims in the NAMDA petition.

NAMDA: “Consultant pharmacist/nurse roles add no clinical value in hospitals.”

UGONSA Response: International empirical reviews show that pharmacist/nurse consultants add immense value in clinical leadership, service redesign, medication management, diagnostic leverage, system thinking, and patient-centered care that improve access, outcomes, and satisfaction. Where roles are poorly implemented, benefits are muted. Therefore, the remedy is better role design and evaluation, not prohibition.

NAMDA: “Appointment to consultant rank is a political back-door and will create role confusion.”

UGONSA Response: Nursing is a globally trusted profession. The trust is why the care of humanity is entrusted to nurses. Nurses must be allowed to advance professionally and academically to continue to add value to the care mandate entrusted to them. NAMDA should have rather emphasized transparent job criteria, advertised vacancies, competency-based appointment, and statutory regulation for the nurse consultant cadre, and not the denial of role evolution. The RCN/NHS model shows that formalized appointment and job planning are workable safeguards.

NAMDA: “We will not work in an environment with these roles.”

UGONSA Response: UGONSA urges constructive collaboration, not threats. Multidisciplinary teams are the future of safe, quality health care; clinical governance frameworks protect patient safety and professional responsibilities for all cadres (IOM, 2010). UGONSA stands ready to discuss specific NAMDA concerns in a joint stakeholder forum.

Conclusion

Nigeria’s health system faces real shortages and growing demand. The Institute of Medicine and the World Health Organization are explicit: nations must enable nurses to practice to the full extent of their training and education, educate nurses to higher levels, and expand nursing leadership in the health system and care redesign. The international evidence shows that advanced nursing roles are safe and often advantageous when implemented with robust regulation and governance. UGONSA therefore reaffirms that we strongly support the creation of regulated, accredited consultant/advanced nursing roles where those roles are defined by law, backed by accredited education, and integrated into hospital governance with clear scopes and accountability. We invite the Office of the Head of Civil Service to galvanize the Federal Ministry of Health, the Medical and Dental Councils, the Nursing and Midwifery Council, NAMDA, Nigeria Medical Association, National Association of Nurses and Midwives, Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria, and other stakeholders to establish a joint technical working group to draft legal/regulatory frameworks, an accreditation pathway, pilot sites, and outcome metrics for the consultant cadres of other healthcare professions and to do so in full public view. UGONSA is ready to lead and collaborate on this evidence-based reform to ensure Nigeria’s hospitals deliver safe, accessible, efficient, evidence-based, and modern care for all Nigerians.

Signed:

Nurse Opeyemi Ojo Nurse Eteng Philip

UGONSA National President UGONSA National Secretary

References

American Association of Managed Care Nurses. (2025). Nurse consultant job description. https://careers.aamcn.org/career/nurse-consultant/job-descriptions

Institute of Medicine. (2010). The future of nursing: Leading change, advancing health. The National Academies Press. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24983041/

Kennedy, F., McDonnell, A., Gerrish, K., et al. (2012). Evaluation of the impact of nurse consultant roles in the United Kingdom: a mixed method systematic literature review. J Adv Nurs., 68(4), 721-42. https://doi:10.1111/j.1365-2648.2011.05811.x.

Laurant, M., van der Biezen, M., Wijers, N., et al. (2018). Nurses as substitutes for doctors in primary care. Cochrane Database System Review, 16, 7(7):CD001271. https://doi:10.1002/14651858.CD001271.pub3.

Royal College of Nursing. (2021). Consultant level nursing. https://www.rcn.org.uk/Professional-Development/Levels-of-nursing/Consultant

World Health Organization. (2021). Global strategic directions for nursing and midwifery 2021–2025. https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789240033863

The Nursing Scope: Volume 8, Issue 3 is Now Available!

We are pleased to announce the release of the latest issue of our esteemed journal, The Nursing Scope (TNS). This marks the Tenth issue published since the journal's revitalization four years ago.

Explore the Latest Research

This issue features four cutting-edge articles that delve into pressing topics in nursing, medicine, and healthcare. Click on the DOIs below to access the online versions:

Ogundare, T.T., Salami, R.A., Oluseye, O.M., Adeniyi, O.E., Atekoja, O.E., & Orji-Okafor, U. (2025). Perceived effects of peer counseling on exclusive breastfeeding among nursing mothers attending child welfare clinic in two selected hospitals in Lagos State, Nigeria. The Nursing Scope, 8(3), 1-13. ISSN: 2645-2936 (Online); 0795 – 6541 (Print). https://doi.org/10.59073/thenursingscope83/1-13

Adelami, T.F., Basil, P.N., Kakamission, P.M., Olorunmo, F.R., Olubiyi, S.K., Edward, M.I., & Esan, D.T. (2025). Assessing the awareness and utilization of academic support services among undergraduates at Joseph Ayo Babalola University, Ikeji‑Arakeji, Osun State. The Nursing Scope, 8(3), 14-32. ISSN: 2645-2936 (Online); 0795 – 6541 (Print). https://doi.org/10.59073/thenursingscope83/14-32

Oladosu, T.O., Awoseemo, A.B., Abiodun, C.S., & Faronbi, J.O. (2025). Quality of life of patients with glaucoma in tertiary hospitals in Osun State, Nigeria.The Nursing Scope, 8(3), 33-46. ISSN: 2645-2936 (Online); 0795 – 6541 (Print). https://doi.org/10.59073/thenursingscope83/33-46

Chukwu, S.N. (2025). Digitalization of nursing education in Nigeria: implications for practice. The Nursing Scope, 8(3), 47-55. ISSN: 2645-2936 (Online); 0795 – 6541 (Print). https://doi.org/10.59073/thenursingscope83/47-55

Omitogun, E.O., Olaoye, K.O., Omirin, T.C., & Adejumo, O. (2025). Family roles in relapse prevention among relatives of patients living with schizophrenia in neuropsychiatric hospitals, South-West Nigeria. The Nursing Scope, 8(3), 56-66. ISSN: 2645-2936 (Online); 0795 – 6541 (Print). https://doi.org/10.59073/thenursingscope83/56-66

Ovuoba-Emeka, S.N. (2025). Integrated management of childhood illness as a strategy for reducing under-five mortality: a literature review. The Nursing Scope, 8(3), 67-71. ISSN: 2645-2936 (Online); 0795 – 6541 (Print). https://doi.org/10.59073/thenursingscope83/67-71

Sani, B.S., Salihu, A.K., Dalhat, S.K., Sani, A. M., Sani, S.M., Bashir, S., Usman, U.M., Rajah, A.S., Balarabe, R., Abdullahi, S., & Opeyemi, E.O. (2025). Characterization of digital eye strain among undergraduate nursing students at distance learning center, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria. The Nursing Scope, 8(3), 72-82. ISSN: 2645-2936 (Online); 0795 – 6541 (Print). https://doi.org/10.59073/thenursingscope83/72-82

Ovuoba-Emeka, S.N. (2025). Socio-demographic factors that affect utilization of family planning services among rural women of Nwofe in Izzi L.G.A, Ebonyi State, Nigeria. The Nursing Scope, 8(3), 83-95. ISSN: 2645-2936 (Online); 0795 – 6541 (Print). https://doi.org/10.59073/thenursingscope83/83-95

Shittu, M.A., Anyebe, E.E., Omoniyi, S.O., Adeshina, K.A. & Imam, R.T. (2025). Relationship between sleep pattern and behaviour of students of health sciences in a Nigerian University. The Nursing Scope, 8(3), 96-107. ISSN: 2645-2936 (Online); 0795 – 6541 (Print). https://doi.org/10.59073/thenursingscope83/96-107

Open Access and Free Downloads

As an open-access journal, TNS provides unrestricted access to all published articles. Visit our website at https://app.thenursingscope.org/ , to view and download articles free of charge. Simply subscribe to our journal (free of charge) to access and download as many articles as you like, all at no cost.

Call for Papers

We are now accepting submissions for our next issue (Volume 8, Issue 4). If you have a research article, practice improvement article, scientific review, case study, clinical essay, academic essay, or other healthcare-related article that you would like to publish, please submit it to us for consideration via this email gnan2ugonsa@gmail.com or directly via the journal website by clicking on the submit manuscript button.

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EDITORIAL BOARD MEMBERS

Editor-in-Chief

Prof. (Mrs.) Ijeoma O. Ehiemere,

University of Nigeria; The Nursing Scope Main Editorial Office

Email: gnan2ugonsa@gmail.com; ijeoma.ehiemere@unn.edu.ng; ijeomere@yahoo.com.

Secretary

Dr. Goodluck I. Nshi,

Aspen University, Denver, CO, U.S.A.

Email: mekagoodluck@yahoo.com.

Assistant Secretary

Prof. Emmanuel Ejembi Anyebe