RismadarVoice Reporters
January 7, 2026
The National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives, Federal Health Institutions Sector (NANNM-FHI), has demanded an immediate and thorough investigation into the killing of one of its members, Nurse Chinemerem Chukwumeziem, a staff of the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Jabi, Abuja.
In a statement issued on Tuesday and signed by the association’s National Secretary, Enya Osinachi, NANNM-FHI expressed shock and grief over what it described as the brutal murder of the nurse.
According to the association, Chukwumeziem was killed on January 3, 2026, after closing from her afternoon shift.
She reportedly boarded a vehicle to return home but never arrived at her destination.
Her body was later discovered, with indications that she was attacked by criminals.
Condemning the incident, the association described the killing as part of a disturbing pattern of insecurity facing healthcare workers, particularly nurses who work long hours and rely on public transportation.
“NANNM–FHI strongly condemns this horrific act and the systemic neglect that allows such tragedies to happen. We stand in full solidarity with Nurse Chinemerem’s family, her colleagues at FMC Jabi, and every nurse who now feels even more vulnerable going to or returning from work,” the statement read.
The association stressed that the incident highlighted the urgent need for concrete action rather than routine expressions of sympathy from authorities.
“We call on the Federal Government, the Federal Ministry of Health, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, and all security agencies to act swiftly and decisively. Words of sympathy are no longer enough. We need real, tangible measures to protect those who protect the health of this nation,” it added.
Among its demands, the association called for the immediate and comprehensive investigation of the killing by the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies, with a view to arresting and prosecuting the perpetrators.
It also demanded enhanced security around federal hospitals, staff quarters and major routes commonly used by healthcare workers, as well as the provision of safe and reliable transportation for nurses on night duties, early shifts or late closures.
The nurses’ body further urged the government to formally recognise nurses as high-risk essential workers through improved hazard allowances, comprehensive life insurance schemes and stronger welfare support for families of deceased health workers.
In addition, the association called for regular security risk assessments of health facilities and commuter routes frequently used by health personnel.
“Nurses are the heartbeat of Nigeria’s healthcare system. We are mothers, daughters, sisters, and providers. When one of us is lost this way, the entire nation feels the impact,” the statement said.
The association warned that morale across the profession would continue to suffer if the safety of nurses was not prioritised, stressing that Chukwumeziem’s death must not be allowed to be in vain.
