By Fatima Saka
The Nigerian government, through the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, in collaboration with the Registered Nurses’ Association of Ontario (RNAO), Canada, has launched the Best Practice Spotlight Organization (BPSO) initiative to enhance nursing practice across the country.
A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was also signed between the ministry and RNAO.
This initiative aims to train, mentor, and oversee nursing service delivery in Federal Tertiary Health Institutions (FTHIs), supporting them in implementing RNAO’s Best Practice Guidelines (BPGs).
Speaking at the launch event on Monday in Abuja, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Daju Kachollom Shangti, announced that Nigerian nurses would now be part of a global movement for evidence-based practice.
Represented by Pharm. Dr. Olubunmi Aribeana, the Permanent Secretary highlighted that Nigeria is the first African country to partner with RNAO and attain the BPSO designation.
“This is a remarkable achievement as we recognize the vital role of nurses in fulfilling Nigeria’s healthcare mandate,” she stated.
Enhancing Healthcare Quality
She emphasized that the BPSO initiative provides a structured framework for adopting best practices in nursing.
“Nurses will be equipped to deliver care that is not only evidence-based but also culturally sensitive and patient-centered. This initiative aligns with the Coordinating Minister’s four-point health agenda and global sustainable development goals,” she said.
According to her, the initiative marks a significant step in improving population health outcomes and strengthening the healthcare value chain in Nigeria.
“The training program is a critical component of the Ministry’s ongoing efforts to enhance the skills and expertise of nurses and other healthcare professionals, ensuring they are well-prepared to meet evolving healthcare challenges,” she added.
She further expressed gratitude to RNAO for bringing the program to Nigeria, noting that it would help nurses and other healthcare professionals lead in evidence-based care, drive quality improvement, and improve health outcomes for Nigerians and Africans at large.
“As we launch this initiative, I encourage you to remain committed to upholding the highest standards of care. The administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is dedicated to improving the healthcare sector. I urge you to leverage the knowledge, tools, and networks provided by this initiative to create a lasting impact on public health,” she said.
Congratulating the 15 hospitals selected for the pilot phase, she called on them to uphold high standards in their institutions, adding that quality healthcare is key to reducing medical tourism and stemming the migration of healthcare professionals.
“This event is not just a ceremony; it is a call to action. We must embrace innovation, champion best practices, and work tirelessly towards a future where every Nigerian has access to quality healthcare services,” she said.
Nigeria Sets the Pace in Africa
While signing the MOU, Dr. Doris Grinspun, Chief Executive Officer of RNAO, expressed excitement over Nigeria becoming the first African country to launch the BPSO initiative.
“The Ministry of Health is pioneering this partnership to improve health outcomes at the individual, organizational, and systemic levels,” she said.
She highlighted that the evidence-based guidelines would provide crucial recommendations for nurses, interprofessional teams, educators, leaders, and policymakers.
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“We are beyond excited to break new ground with Nigeria’s Ministry of Health. This is a transformative journey, and we know Nigerian nurses will work hard to show remarkable results,” she added.
Dr. Grinspun assured continued support from RNAO, stating that her team looked forward to visiting Nigeria, celebrating progress, and showcasing the country’s achievements on a global stage.
“The nursing profession will lead this journey alongside other healthcare professionals, working together as teams to improve public health in Nigeria,” she stated.
Strengthening Healthcare Delivery
Dr. Jimoh O. Salaudeen, Director of Hospital Services, represented by Dr. Okpikpo Okpako, Director of Regulatory and Professional Schools, described the launch as a major milestone in Nigeria’s healthcare sector.
“Nigeria is the first African country to host a BPSO, thanks to the visionary leadership of Permanent Secretary Daju Kachollom,” he said.
He underscored the importance of global collaboration in improving healthcare systems and commended RNAO for selecting Nigeria as its first African partner.
“As part of this initiative, a four-day training program will be conducted for teams from 15 selected FTHIs across the six geopolitical zones, including a district hospital in the FCT. This is just the beginning, as we plan to extend the program nationwide,” he said.
According to him, this initiative aligns with the Coordinating Minister’s Four-Point Agenda and broader efforts to improve healthcare delivery in Nigeria.
“By adopting best practices, we are enhancing healthcare services and empowering our professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to meet international standards. This will not only reduce medical tourism but also help retain healthcare professionals in Nigeria,” he noted.
Commitment to Excellence
Obi Dolores Chinyere, Head of Nursing Services at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Abuja, commended the initiative, stating that it would promote excellence in patient-centered care.
“This program highlights exemplary healthcare practices and fosters knowledge-sharing to drive positive change in our communities,” she said.
She expressed gratitude to RNAO and the Federal Ministry of Health for their partnership and for selecting FMC Abuja as one of the pilot centers.
“Together, we are committed to advancing the highest standards of healthcare practice. Let us work collaboratively to showcase excellence in healthcare and build a brighter future for all Nigerians,” she added.
