From Godwin Agia, in Jalingo
The National Coalition of NGOs and Civil Society Organizations in Nigeria (NCNCSON), have call on governor Agbu Kefas to wade into the leadership crisis at the Taraba state college of Nursing and Midwifery Jalingo, and save the institution from collapsing.
The coalition expressed fear that the institution may lose its reputation and global rating in training of quality nurses and midwives, if the crisis is not urgently handled.
A press statement signed by the association’s state president, Fidelis Nashuka, appealed to governor Kefas to wade into the situation and save the institution’s image.
“We wish to express our deep concern over the ongoing leadership crisis at the College of Nursing and Midwifery, Jalingo.
“This institution knowned for it’s pioneering role in nursing education and infrastructural achievements under the administration of His Excellency, Dr. Agbu Kefas, is now at risk of losing its credibility due to poor management practices.
“The leadership challenges at the college highlight concerns over adherence to retirement protocols, transparency in appointments, and compliance with regulatory standards established by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN), and the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE). These issues undermine the values of accountability, fairness and excellence that should guide the institution’s operations.
“As an organization dedicated to ensuring good governance, NCNCSON emphasizes the need for immediate and long-term interventions to address this crisis.
“We wish to recommend that the state government should facilitate a swift and transparent transition to a competent and qualified leadership team.
“Ensure compliance with regulatory guidelines and adherence to civil service rules regarding appointments and retirements.
“Reassign the institution to the Ministry of Tertiary Education for better administrative oversight, with the Ministry of Health as a strategic partner.
“Establish transparent and merit-based selection processes for leadership positions to uphold professionalism and fairness.
“Empower the governing council to take an active role in institutional management and succession planning to strengthen oversight.
“The state government should invest in leadership development programs to enhance institutional management and academic standards as well, promote capacity building”, the coalition recommended.
The association called on the Taraba State government and relevant authorities to investigate and resolve the issue to restore the institution’s integrity and ensure alignment with the governor’s policies for excellence in education.
The coalition also reaffirmed its commitment to collaborate with the government and stakeholders to promote accountability and good governance, for a sustainable development of education in Taraba State.
