Lagos state govt issues warning to Hospitals, residents regarding auxiliary Nurses

To address unprofessional conduct within the healthcare sector and minimize instances of avoidable maternal health issues, the Lagos State Government has alerted hospitals and clinics about employing auxiliary nurses who do not possess the necessary training and certification.

This alert was issued by the Health Facility Monitoring and Accreditation Agency (HEFAMAA) during a sensitization campaign and town hall meeting that took place on Thursday in the Alimosho Local Government Area.

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Dr. Abiola Idowu, the Permanent Secretary of HEFAMAA, through the Head of Research and Statistics, Dr. Olonire Olufemi, denounced the presence of unqualified individuals in healthcare delivery, emphasizing that such actions endanger public health.

She assured that the agency will persist in enhancing its monitoring of both public and private healthcare facilities to improve the industry and eliminate unprofessional practices.

Dr. Idowu further emphasised that the use of auxiliary nurses remains unsafe and illegal. “Auxiliary nurses have no formal training or recognised certification, yet they are sometimes found administering care in some facilities. This practice is dangerous and prohibited. Any centre caught engaging them will face strict sanctions,” she warned.

Highlighting recent innovations, the Permanent Secretary explained that HEFAMAA has introduced a Quick Response (QR) Code system across accredited health facilities. With a simple smartphone scan, patients can verify whether a facility is duly registered, confirm its service category, and even send direct feedback to the Lagos State Government.

Also speaking at the event, the Chief Nutrition Officer of HEFAMAA, Mr. Richard Olusanya, underscored the importance of ensuring that only qualified medical professionals manage health centres.

He explained that all facilities must meet strict standards in staffing, equipment, and environmental hygiene before being accredited.

“A hospital must have qualified doctors and nurses with clear areas of specialisation. We also insist that all centres display their registration certificates prominently so the public can easily verify them. The QR Code initiative further enhances transparency and promotes community participation in health regulation,” Olusanya said.