Kwara raises entry level for qualified nurses from Grade Level 09 to 10

The Kwara State Government has approved a new entry point for qualified Nursing Officers in the state civil service, raising their starting grade level from Salary Grade Level 09 to Grade Level 10.

The Kwara State Hospitals Management Board (KW-HMB) said the development followed the approval of the enhanced entry point by the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, in line with a resolution of the National Council on Establishments.

The Executive Secretary of the Board, Dr Abdulraheem Malik, described the approval as a major boost for the nursing profession and healthcare delivery in the state.

Malik said the new entry level recognises the academic and professional requirements of holders of the Bachelor of Nursing Science qualification, including compulsory internship, the National Youth Service Corps programme and registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria.

“This approval is a significant step towards recognising the academic and professional demands of the nursing profession. It will strengthen our ability to attract and retain qualified nurses, improve staff motivation, address critical manpower gaps, and ultimately enhance healthcare delivery across our hospitals,” he said.

He said the enhanced entry point would help Kwara attract and retain qualified nurses while addressing manpower gaps in its health facilities.

The Board’s executive secretary commended Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for what he described as the administration’s sustained investment in the health sector and commitment to the welfare and professional development of healthcare workers.

According to him, the policy would further support efforts to build a motivated and sustainable healthcare workforce and make the state more attractive to skilled health professionals.

Malik added that the new entry point would ensure that qualified nurses are appropriately recognised for their education, training and professional responsibilities.

He assured residents that the Hospitals Management Board would continue to support policies aimed at improving staff welfare, strengthening the healthcare workforce and enhancing access to quality healthcare services across the state.