A leadership crisis has engulfed the Taraba State College of Nursing and Midwifery, following allegations that the retired provost, Esther Gana, has refused to vacate her position despite reaching the mandatory retirement age.  

The controversy has sparked outrage among stakeholders in the health sector and the college community, raising concerns about the institution's adherence to retirement protocols and regulatory standards set by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) and the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE).  

Reports indicate that Gana, who officially retired on October 27, 2024, continues to perform her duties, including signing checks and awarding contracts. Critics have also questioned her qualifications, claiming that her Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Nursing does not meet the academic requirements for the provost position, which typically demands a doctoral degree.  



Sources allege that her appointment by former Governor Darius Dickson Ishaku bypassed standard qualification criteria, describing it as a product of favoritism. Despite her retirement, documents from the Taraba State Civil Service Commission confirm that Gana’s gratuity was processed and formally approved her retirement. However, she reportedly insists that only the governor can order her removal from office.  

When contacted, Gana redirected questions to higher authorities, stating, "We have authorities, don't we? Go and ask them why I am still in office after retirement."  

State Commissioner for Information, Barr Zainab Jalingo, clarified that Gana has been re-engaged on a contractual basis, with approval from Governor Agbu Kefas. However, Jalingo did not provide documentation to support this claim when requested.  

In response, the Nigerian College of Nursing Science and Midwifery (NCNCSON) has called for an immediate investigation into the situation. They have urged Governor Kefas and the NMCN to address the crisis to preserve the institution's credibility and ensure compliance with established standards.  

The ongoing dispute raises broader concerns about governance, transparency, and institutional integrity within the Taraba State College of Nursing and Midwifery.