INEC Unveils Healthcare Upgrade Plans to Improve Staff Welfare at Nurses Week 2026

The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Joash Amupitan, has announced new measures aimed at improving healthcare services and staff welfare through the renovation of existing medical facilities and the planned acquisition of a larger healthcare centre in Abuja.

Amupitan disclosed the development during the grand finale of the 2026 International Nurses Week celebration held at the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja.

INEC Begins Renovation of Clinic Facilities

According to the INEC Chairman, the decision followed reports highlighting the poor state of some clinic facilities operated by the Commission.

He revealed that the process for renovating the Kubwa Clinic had already begun after an internal assessment was conducted.

“Just a few days ago, I was informed about the poor condition of our clinic facilities, and I immediately directed the relevant department to carry out an evaluation,” Amupitan said.

“A report has since been submitted, and I have approved the commencement of due process for the renovation of the Kubwa Clinic.”

Plans for Larger Healthcare Centre in Abuja

Beyond the renovation project, the INEC Chairman also unveiled plans to acquire a bigger healthcare facility in Area 10, Abuja, to strengthen access to medical services for staff members.

According to him, the initiative forms part of the Commission’s broader commitment to staff welfare and workplace productivity.

“When I presented the proposal at the National Assembly, some people assumed we intended to build a hospital,” he explained.

“But our objective is to ensure that the healthcare facilities available to our staff are functional, efficient, and capable of meeting their needs.”

Amupitan stressed that the demanding nature of INEC’s operations exposes workers to significant stress and health risks, making staff healthcare a critical priority.

“If you want a productive workforce, you must also prioritise their health and wellbeing,” he added.

INEC Commends Nurses for Dedication and Service

The INEC Chairman described nurses as the foundation of healthcare delivery, applauding their professionalism, resilience, and dedication to patient care.

Several senior officials of the Commission also paid tribute to nurses during the event.

National Commissioner and Chairman of the Health and Welfare Committee, Rhoda Gumus, described nursing as an essential profession that plays a key role in healthcare delivery, disease prevention, and community wellbeing.

Similarly, National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Kudu Haruna, acknowledged the contributions of nurses to effective service delivery within the Commission.

National Commissioner and Chairman of the Board of The Electoral Institute, Kunle Ajayi, also emphasized the importance of recognising and supporting the nursing profession.

Nursing Council Highlights Reforms in Healthcare Sector

In his keynote address, the Registrar and Chief Executive Officer of the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria, Ndagi Alhassan, described the 2026 Nurses Week theme, “Our Nurses, Our Future: Empowered Nurses Save Lives,” as a major call for policy reforms and investment in healthcare workers.

He noted that nurses and midwives remain central to Nigeria’s healthcare system and outlined several ongoing reforms by the Council.

According to Alhassan, the reforms include curriculum development, accreditation improvements, digital licensing systems, continuous professional development programmes, workforce regulation, and healthcare policy advocacy.

Retired Nurses Honoured at Nurses Week Event

The event also featured tributes to Florence Nightingale, alongside award presentations to key officials and recognition of retired nurses for their years of meritorious service.

Health sector stakeholders at the event stressed the importance of sustained investment in healthcare infrastructure, workforce development, and staff welfare to improve healthcare delivery across Nigeria.