International Nurses Day is a day observed around the world on May 12 each year, to mark the contributions that nurses make to society.

Mr Oppong-Nkrumah speaking at a media briefing in Accra to update on Ghana's case situation of the COVID-19 pandemic said the role of the nurse needed no further highlighting.

"As you are aware we are in the midst of a pandemic and the nurse is an instrumental figure in this fight. From contact tracing, to care for the sick and follow up on those who have recovered, the Ghanaian nurse has been a strong soldier in this battle.

"We dedicate today's briefing to the celebration of the thousands of nurses Nationwide, who continue to serve as part of the Frontline health workers in the battle against COVID-19.Your efforts, sacrifices and dedication is immeasurable," he stated.

He said the President, the government and the people of Ghana were appreciative of their hard work and would continue to provide the needed support to lighten their burden.

The Minister said this year's celebration was on the theme "Nursing the World to Health" and therefore expected that the nurses continue with the hard work, support the Frontline health workers to nurse the Ghanaian population and the few who tested positive to COVID-19.

Mr Oppong-Nkrumah at the briefing also dedicated 30 seconds to applaud the nurses for their hard work and dedication and urged them to keep up the pace adding that, government would provide them with needed support.

Meanwhile, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo -Addo, on Sunday during his televised address to the nation wished nurses a happy "International Nurses Day" in advance.

"In advance I say a hearty ayekoo to the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association, which celebrates its 60th anniversary for their contribution to the nation".

The Ghana Registered Nurses’ and Midwives’ Association (GRNMA), formerly Ghana Registered Nurses’ Association (GRNA) is a Professional Association for all categories of Nurses in Ghana.

The Association was founded in March 1960 as a result of a merger of two professional nursing Associations; the Qualified Nurses Association headed by Mr. Mettle-Nunoo and the State Registered Nurses Association led by Dr. Docial Kisseih with the mission to provide a central organization that would advance the interest of the nursing profession in Ghana and internationally.

The purpose of the merger was to present on the Nursing/Midwifery Association to represent the country at the International Council of Nurses.

As a result of the merger, Dr. Docia Kisseih became the first president and Mr. Mettle Nunoo became the first General Secretary.

It is a Professional Association independent and non-partisan and is the exclusive mouthpiece for all nurses in matters affecting them.

The Association exists as a professional body, incorporated under the NRC Decree 143. Professional Bodies Registration with Registration number PB-13.

Its headquarters is at Accra with branches all over the country with its motto as “unity is strength”.