Zamfara nurses evacuated from Sudan to join state workforce

In a significant gesture of support and compassion, Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, has granted automatic employment to 16 graduates of Nursing from Sudan International University. This announcement, made during a special ceremony at the Government House in Gusau, marks a crucial moment for the graduates and underscores the Governor’s commitment to the state’s healthcare and educational sectors.

The event, which saw the presentation of certificates to the graduates, was detailed in a statement released on Friday by the Governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris. The statement highlighted that 66 Zamfara students, who had been sponsored by the state government, were evacuated from Sudan in 2023 due to the ongoing conflict there. Of these, 16 were final-year Nursing students who had been unable to complete their exams before the war broke out.

Governor Lawal’s proactive measures ensured that the students were able to sit for their final exams in Nigeria. With the collaboration of the Zamfara Commissioner for Education, exams were arranged with Sudan International University’s management, enabling the students to complete their studies despite the disruptions caused by the conflict.

At the ceremony, Governor Lawal remarked, “A state of emergency has been declared in Education by my administration, addressing the critical situation in Zamfara. We are making notable strides, investing substantial resources in Education, which is the foundation of an improved society.”

He further added, “We are constructing and rehabilitating hospitals across the state, but that is not enough without the necessary workforce. You’ve chosen a field with significant benefits, and as a result, you will all be granted automatic employment with the Zamfara State Government.”

The Governor also confirmed that the employment of the graduates would be formalised through the Head of Service, who would ensure their integration into the Zamfara State Civil Service.

This initiative not only offers employment to the newly graduated Nurses but also strengthens Zamfara’s healthcare system, which is a critical priority for the administration. The Governor’s actions highlight a commitment to addressing urgent educational and healthcare needs, which are vital to the state’s recovery and future progress.