National Association Of Nigeria Nurses & Midwives
2024 Induction For State Administrative Council (SAC) Members
Date: February 27Th – March 1St
Venue: Veragold Suites And Apartments, Public Service Institute, Dutse Alhaji, Kubwa–Abuja
Introduction:
This report details the training and induction process for the newly elected state officers of the National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM) across all thirty-six (36) state branches and the federal capital territory (FCT) Abuja.
The main objective of the capacity-building program is to provide the state Administrative Council (SAC) members with the necessary tools, knowledge, and skills to effectively fulfil their roles. This includes aligning with organizational goals and contributing to the overall success and growth of the Association. The program aims to ensure that individuals are well-prepared for their responsibilities, develop their abilities to meet the changing demands of their positions and enable them to make meaningful contributions to the organization.
Program Details
It was a five-day program with the theme “Leadership Capacity Building: A Tool for Exploring the Core Values of Trade Unionism,” held from February 27th to March 1st, 2024, at Vera Gold Suites and Apartment, Public Service Institute, Dutse Alhaji, Kubwa, Abuja. Two hundred forty-four participants registered from the State Councils.
The trainers were experts drawn from various training institutes with distinct expertise in trade union resources. These included university lecturers, the Nigeria Labour Congress, Emeritus Union Leaders, and the Federal Ministry of Labour and Productivity. All members of the National Administrative Council (NAC) facilitated the program.
The induction program began with an opening ceremony on February 27, 2024. The national president of NANNM, Com. Nurse Micheal Nnachi delivered a welcome address to the participants. In his speech, he encouraged the new inductees to give their best to the organization, be selfless leaders in their respective state councils, and take the training seriously. He emphasized that everything they learn should be put into practice for the growth and development of the association.
Experienced labour leaders attended the event, which was chaired by Comrade Nurse L. H. Dutsinma (Emeritus National President of NANNM), who advised the newly elected State Excos to lead with vision, advocate for their colleagues and patients, and inspire future leaders. Dignitaries shared goodwill messages, and the program was officially opened by Daju Kachollom S. MNI, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare.
Training content
The remaining days were highly impactful, with the following topics covered by excellent resource persons:
- Trade Union Politics & Governance
- NANNM Constitution and its Applicability
- Trade Union Organizing in the 21st Century
- Negotiating Skills & Collective Bargaining in Trade Union Engagement: A Tool for Shaping the Future of the Workplace
- History of Trade Union with a Specific Focus on NANNM
- Effective Communication: A Solution for Building a Viable Trade Union Movement
- Trade Union Finances: Sources, Application, and Responsibility
- The Role of Auditors in Safeguarding the Union’s Assets
- Leadership and Conflict Resolution
- Understanding the Role of the NMCN & NANNM in Advancing the Nursing Profession
Training materials such as PowerPoint presentations, slides, handouts, group activities/discussions, and case studies were used during the program to facilitate the training. The training concluded with a robust interactive session between NAC members and participants where participants had the opportunity to ask questions about the progress of the association and trade union. The answers provided were satisfactory, and certificates of participation were issued to all participants.
Learning Outcomes/feedback
The participants expressed satisfaction at the end of the training and appreciated the leadership of the association for their efforts in building a strong professional union through capacity building. The participants demonstrated improved leadership skills, including strategic thinking, decision-making, and the ability to inspire and guide others within the organization. They also gained communication skills, effective stakeholder engagement, teamwork and team building, budgeting, and financial oversight. The participants promised to continue upholding the provisions of the association’s constitution.
Challenges and Solutions
The attendees expressed dissatisfaction with the location selected by the organizers for the event. They had differing opinions about the decision to monetise tea breaks and lunch. While some individuals appreciated the policy, others encountered difficulties in finding quality food options near the venue. The facilitators took note of all the grievances, offered apologies on behalf of the leadership, and assured the participants that they would work on enhancing future arrangements.
Conclusion
The training and induction program for the newly elected SAC Members of the National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives was a significant step towards empowering them with the essential skills and knowledge needed to lead effectively. The program successfully addressed key areas such as leadership development, strategic planning, advocacy, and organizational management, ensuring that these leaders are well-prepared to navigate the complexities of their roles. Despite some challenges, the feedback from participants has been overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the program’s relevance and impact. Moving forward, the insights gained from this training will be invaluable in strengthening the associations and advancing the nursing profession on both national and international fronts. Continuous support and follow-up will be essential to sustaining the progress made and ensuring long-term success.
Thank you
Christiana John Bawa
DGS/Ag HOD E&T
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