Grief has swept through the Nigerian and UK nursing communities following the discovery of Nnena Miriam, a Nigerian nurse based in Leeds, who was found dead in her apartment.
Miriam, who had recently returned to the UK after celebrating her introduction ceremony in Nigeria ahead of her traditional wedding, was reported missing by a close friend after failing to show up for work and not responding to calls. Authorities later found her lifeless body at home.
Fellow Nurses Africa, a professional body advocating for African nurses, confirmed the heartbreaking news in a statement. According to the group, Miriam’s last known shift was on Sunday, and her absence became alarming when she failed to respond throughout the week.
Durban Protesters Demand Expulsion of Undocumented Immigrants
“Tuesday, April 29, was meant to be a day of joy for Miriam, but instead it became a day of mourning,” the statement read, describing her as a kind and dedicated caregiver whose death has left many devastated and searching for answers.
The cause of death remains unknown as investigations continue. Tributes have poured in from colleagues and friends who praised her compassion and professionalism.
This incident echoes a similar tragedy from March 2024, when Chidimma Ezenyili, another Nigerian nurse in the UK, died after collapsing while caring for an elderly patient.
Miriam’s passing marks yet another painful loss in the African healthcare diaspora, leaving a trail of sorrow among those she touched in life.