Date of Event: June 9–14, 2025
Location: Helsinki, Finland
Date of Report: 19 June 2025
1. Introduction
The National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM) participated in the International Council of Nurses (ICN) Conference and Impact Hub held in Helsinki, Finland, from June 9 to 14, 2025. The delegation comprised key leaders and representatives from NANNM who engaged in sessions focused on global nursing leadership, health equity, policy, and innovation in nursing and midwifery practice. The conference brought together nurses and partners from around the world to discuss pressing health system challenges and showcase transformative practices.
2. Objectives
– To represent NANNM and the Nigerian nursing workforce on the global stage
– To present and share innovative leadership strategies from Nigeria
– To engage in policy discussions and networking with development partners and sister associations
– To strengthen NANNM’s visibility and global collaborations
3. Highlights of Participation
- Presentation at ICN Impact Hub: NANNM presented a dynamic leadership initiative on the online Membership Management System, highlighting how digital tools have improved member registration, advocacy planning, and policy engagement.
• Recognition by CNAI: NANNM received a Certificate of Recognition from the Italian Nurses Association (CNAI) for its outstanding contribution to leadership and innovation in nursing.
• Attendance at workshops and sessions: The delegation participated in sessions on nursing workforce policy, leadership for change, midwifery in crises, and health system transformation.
• Collaboration and networking: NANNM delegates connected with ICN leadership, ICM, WHO, and representatives from other national nursing associations. - E-Poster Abstract presentation. The delegation also participated in the e-poster abstract presentation sessions they are:
- Empowering Nurses Leaders in Global Health: Innovation, Advocacy and Impact. Mrs. Ofere Oluwatoyin.
- Institutionalizing Evidence – Informed Policies Among Nursing Leadership in FCT, Nigeria. Mr. Jama Medan.
- The Role of Nursing in Humanitarian and Emergency Response: A Case Study of NANNM: Intervention during the 2022 Bayelsa State Flood. Author Mbeleokpo Sonia Andabai.
4. Key Learnings
– The importance of nurse-led innovation and data systems in national health planning
– The value of international solidarity and shared policy frameworks to improve health outcomes
– Strategies to amplify nurses’ voices in global health diplomacy and health system resilience
– New models for mentoring, leadership development, and digital engagement in professional associations
5. Recommendations
– Sustain engagement with ICN, ICM, WHO, and global partners for technical and policy collaboration
– Scale up the Membership Management System for enhanced national visibility
– Organize national-level policy dialogues to disseminate lessons from the ICN conference
– Invest in continuous leadership training for nurses and midwives at all levels
6. Conclusion
The ICN Conference and Impact Hub 2025 provided a powerful platform for NANNM to demonstrate leadership, innovation, and advocacy at the global level. The recognition received and partnerships formed will serve as a foundation for future collaborations and continued advancement of the nursing profession in Nigeria and beyond.
OFERE OLUWATOYIN ANIKE
Deputy General Secretary
Head of Organization and Professional Services
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