NE/R – Nalerigu Youth Gives Health Minister Two Weeks to Reinstate Suspended Nursing College Principal

By – Sadat Dabo

The Nalerigu Youth Association (NAYA) has issued a two-week ultimatum to the Ministry of Health to take meaningful steps toward resolving the suspension of the Principal of the Nalerigu Nursing and Midwifery College, Ibrahim Chimsi, warning that it will pursue all lawful and constitutional avenues if the matter remains unresolved

At a press conference held in Nalerigu on Friday August 28, 2026, read by association member Abdulai Hardi expressed concern over the suspension of the Principal following a visit by the Minister for Health, Kwamina Akandoh, to the college on February 28, 2026

NAYA said while it recognizes the authority of the Ministry of Health to enforce regulations governing health training institutions, it believes the decision to suspend the Principal should have been handled through a transparent and fair administrative process

According to the association, if the alleged admission of students beyond the college’s approved quota was a first-time offence, a warning or other corrective measures could have been considered before imposing a suspension

The youth group also expressed concern over reports that His Royal Majesty the Nayiri had sent three separate delegations to the Health Minister seeking a reconsideration of the suspension, but without what it described as a satisfactory resolution

NAYA further criticized what it described as the absence of a courtesy call on the Nayiri, the Life Patron of the college and Overlord of the Mamprugu Kingdom, before the Minister’s official engagement at the institution.

The association argued that engaging traditional authorities is essential in resolving matters of significant local importance

Among its key demands, NAYA called on the Ministry of Health to reconsider the suspension and facilitate the reinstatement of Mr. Chimsi, investigate allegations of insubordination and mismanagement involving the current Vice Principal and some teaching staff, engage the Nayiri and other stakeholders in dialogue, and ensure that admission-related concerns are addressed through established institutional procedures

The association stressed that its appeal is driven by concerns for fairness, due process, institutional stability and the continued development of the Nalerigu Nursing and Midwifery College

Giving the Ministry a two-week window to act, NAYA said the period should allow for constructive dialogue and an amicable settlement of the matter. It, however, cautioned that should no progress be made, it would consult relevant stakeholders and pursue all lawful, peaceful and constitutionally permissible options available

The association emphasized that it does not support violence, intimidation, destruction of property or any unlawful conduct, insisting that any future actions would remain peaceful and within the laws of Ghana

NAYA concluded by reaffirming its respect for the Government of Ghana, the Ministry of Health, traditional authorities and the management of the college, while urging all parties to embrace dialogue in the interest of preserving peace and ensuring the continued growth of the institution