“…It’s Not Worth It At All“
In a recent interview on Lucky Udu Experience on YouTube, Nigerian nurse Chidinma has shed light on the challenges faced by nurses in the country, describing the profession as one that comes with “high responsibility” and significant emotional demands.
Responding to Lucky Udu’s question on the hidden pains nurses endure, Chidinma explained that the profession demands constant human interaction and sacrifices that take a toll on those in the field.
“When you look at the things we put out there, it involves human interaction, and when you are expected to give so much to another individual, it will demand a lot from you. Definitely, there’s going to be challenges and a dark side.”
Beyond the emotional weight of dealing with patients, Chidinma highlighted poor salaries as one of the biggest challenges for Nigerian nurses.
According to her, the wages often leave health workers struggling to meet basic needs.
“If I tell you how much a nurse is being paid, most of you will laugh at them. They are moving and carrying themselves up, but it’s not worth it at all. They are not being treated well, they are being poorly paid,” she stated.
She further noted that the government cannot employ every nurse, forcing many into the private sector where working conditions are not necessarily better.
“Some people will go into the private sector, but how are they being treated? Do you look into their welfare? If a nurse is not able to earn something that will take care their basic needs, how will that individual feel?” she asked.
Chidinma emphasized that the problem goes beyond daily survival. She pointed out that many nurses are unable to afford professional growth, including renewing licenses, paying transport fares to work, or advancing in knowledge.
“We’re not even talking about luxury. With the salaries, some cannot even renew their licenses or cover transport to work. Yet when you come to work, you are expected to put aside those struggles and still carry out your duties diligently,” she said.
According to her, this reality leaves many nurses overburdened, underpaid, and undervalued despite the critical role they play in society.
COURTESY: doublemove
