Graduates of the Kebbi State College of Nursing Sciences, Birnin Kebbi, have publicly appealed to Governor Nasir Idris for urgent intervention regarding the non-payment of allowances traditionally granted to nursing students during their training period. The group expressed deep concern over the government’s failure to disburse financial support, which they say has left many nursing graduates demoralized and financially strained.
In a formal statement addressed to the Kebbi State government, the nursing graduates highlighted that unlike previous cohorts, this current batch did not receive any form of monetary allowance throughout their rigorous academic and clinical training. This comes despite repeated verbal assurances from relevant state officials promising timely payments.
The nursing graduates underscored that for years, it has been an established practice for students who appeared in professional nursing uniforms during their training to receive allowances. This initiative was aimed at motivating and recognizing their valuable contribution to the healthcare sector, especially in underserved communities.
“From the inception of our programme until graduation, we did not receive any allowance or financial support, despite this being a well-known and longstanding tradition,” the statement read. “Several promises were made verbally, but none materialized. This has negatively impacted our morale and ability to meet basic needs during training.”
The graduates, having completed all professional requirements including clinical postings, practical exams, and community health services, reaffirmed their commitment to contributing to Kebbi State’s healthcare development. However, they emphasized that the withholding of allowances not only affects their welfare but also risks discouraging future nursing students.
In their plea, they called on Governor Nasir Idris to investigate the matter thoroughly and consider the possibility of settling all unpaid allowances as a matter of justice and fairness.
“We believe in the integrity and fairness of the current administration,” the statement added. “We remain hopeful that Governor Idris will intervene promptly to ensure justice for all affected graduates.”
The issue of unpaid allowances for nursing students is not isolated to Kebbi State alone; it reflects a broader challenge within Nigeria’s healthcare training system. Allowances have historically been a crucial support mechanism, helping students to cover transport, accommodation, and other essential expenses during demanding clinical placements.
The non-payment of such allowances could have serious repercussions, including reduced motivation among healthcare trainees and eventual impacts on the quality of healthcare delivery. Nursing graduates often serve on the front lines, especially in rural and underserved areas, making their welfare critical to the overall health system.
Experts argue that consistent payment of these allowances can enhance retention of healthcare professionals within the state, reducing brain drain to other regions or countries. It also signals government commitment to supporting education and healthcare development simultaneously.
Civil society organizations and professional nursing bodies have joined the call for transparent disbursement of training allowances across Nigeria. They advocate for clear timelines, proper budgetary allocations, and routine public disclosures to prevent future lapses.
For Kebbi State, this presents an opportunity for Governor Idris’s administration to reinforce its commitment to healthcare improvement by addressing this pressing concern swiftly.
As the graduates await a response, many are hopeful that Governor Idris will intervene decisively. Payment of the allowances would not only alleviate immediate financial hardship but also restore faith in government promises and encourage more young people to pursue careers in nursing and healthcare.
The Kebbi State government is yet to make an official statement regarding this appeal, but the growing public attention on the matter is likely to push for prompt action.