A recipient of the 2023 National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwifery (NANNM)
Award, Mrs. Hope Ebele Afuekwe, has commended Anambra State Council of the association for rewarding excellence amongst the Nurses and Midwives. 

Mrs. Afuekwe, a veteran Nurse gave the commendation in Awka shortly after receiving the 2023 Professional Excellence Award in recognition of her exemplary leadership in public service and contribution to human resource development.

"The leadership of Comrade Edith Onwuka is indeed inspiring, motivating and engaging. Since she took over NANNM, the body  has witnessed a great turn around in terms of motivating us to put in our best in our service to humanity and health care services. Honestly I'm pleased to be a recipient of this year's award. I never knew that someone was watching and taking note of my service at the grassroots. When you're closer to the people with health challenges, you will be in a better position to attend to their needs medically  through administration, councilling and care," she said.

Mrs. Afuekwe, first daughter of late Pa Josiah Ajuluchukwu  Chidoka of Ogbu, Abatete  in  Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra state, said the recognition will spur her and colleagues to do more exploits in the profession.

"Nursing is a highly rewarding and fulfilling vocation. It's interesting caring for patients, communicating with doctors, administering medicine and checking vital signs. 
I love the profession because it is so rewarding to make a difference in someone's life. It's beautiful when you look into a patient's eyes and see the window to their soul, with just a caring touch or word which can make a connection and recovery take place," she said.

Mrs. Afuekwe who is currently stationed at MCH, Ogidi, Idemili North LGA said, "when supported and empowered, Nurses have the potential to shape the image of the health care delivery at all levels and I and other recipients are committed to uplifting the image of the Nursing profession."

On the occasion, the state Chairman of NANNM, Comrade Edith Onwuka, while speaking on the theme, "Our Nurses Our Future" charged members of the association to always remember their pledge to the profession 'to always abstain from whatsoever is deleterious or mischievous and will not intentionally administer any harmful drug."

Comrade Onwuka said, "Upholding the tenets of the profession would always place you in the right pedestal."

According to the number one Nurse and Midwife in the state, "Trust in the nursing profession by individuals and society should not be taken lightly. Increasing ethical awareness in the profession can help ensure that we  maintain that trust.

"We have to support one another and continue to develop the future of nursing at all levels."

NANNM, few days ago singled out some of its members for a meritorious award following their exemplary service to the Nursing profession.

The award ceremony which was organised as part of events marking the 2023 International Nurses Week celebration took place in Awka, Anambra state capital.

About 16 Nurses clinched the awards.