The sudden death of Nnena Miriam, a Nigerian nurse living in Leeds, United Kingdom, has left the nursing community in both countries in deep shock and mourning.
Miriam’s body was reportedly discovered by UK police after she was declared missing. According to Fellow Nurses Africa, a professional group committed to supporting African nurses, the alarm was raised after she stopped responding to calls and failed to show up at work.
A concerned friend, unable to reach her for several days, reported her disappearance to the authorities.
This led to a welfare check, during which officers found her dead in her apartment.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the organisation confirmed the incident, expressing sorrow over the tragic loss.
“It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of one of our own, Nurse Nnena Miriam. She was a committed healthcare professional known for her compassion and resilience,” the statement read.
The group revealed that Miriam had recently returned from Nigeria, where she held her introduction ceremony in preparation for her traditional wedding.
Her death occurred just days before her planned celebration on Tuesday, April 29.
“What was meant to be a joyous occasion turned into a heartbreaking tragedy, leaving friends, colleagues, and loved ones devastated,” the statement continued.
Described as kind and dedicated, Miriam was praised by her peers for the care she provided and the professionalism she displayed in her work.
Her passing has been described as a significant loss to the medical community she served.
While investigations into the cause of death are ongoing, the organisation called for support and unity among nurses during this difficult time.
The incident follows a similar case in March 2024, when Chidimma Ezenyili, another Nigerian caregiver in the UK, collapsed while tending to an elderly client and died two days later.
