Requirements for Becoming a Nurse in Nigeria

Becoming a nurse is a significant professional decision. Before embarking on this journey, it's crucial to understand the educational and licensing requirements. This article aims to provide you with essential information on how to become a Registered Nurse and Midwife in Nigeria. Whether you're aspiring to work in a hospital, community health, or public health, this guide will clarify the pathways and prerequisites.

Pathways to Becoming a Nurse

The Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) is a regulatory body established to ensure the highest standards of nursing and midwifery practice in Nigeria. Several pathways are available to pursue a career as a nurse:

School of Nursing Program School of Basic Midwifery Program University Nursing Program (B.NSc)

These programs are designed to equip individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in the nursing profession.

Entry Requirements

Regardless of the pathway chosen, you will need to meet certain entry requirements:

Five credits in English, Mathematics, Biology, Physics, and Chemistry. These must be achieved within two sitting periods. For entry into major universities, you must have credits in these courses.

For the B.NSc program, the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) requirements differ. This means you have the flexibility to choose between the basic nursing/midwifery program or sitting for JAMB and UTME for the B.NSc program.

School of Nursing Program

This is a three-year Basic General Nursing Program, hospital-based, and spans three years. Upon completion, you will receive a Certificate in General Nursing (RN) and be deemed as a Registered Nurse.

The program is predominantly run by university teaching hospitals, with a few being privately owned. To enroll:

Obtain a form. Complete the entrance examinations. Pass the physical interview and medical tests.

You do not need to provide JAMB UTME results for enrollment in this program. Upon successful completion of the program, you will be granted a license to practice by the NMCN after passing the professional exams.

School of Basic Midwifery Program

This program is also three years long and culminates in a Diploma in General Midwifery. Upon completion, you will be regarded as a Registered Midwife (RM).

This route has diminished popularity as many now prefer certification as a General Nurse before undertaking midwifery training. This is due to the additional qualification required to practice as a midwife.

University Nursing Program (B.NSc)

The B.NSc program requires sitting for both JAMB UTME and post-UTME. The cut-off marks for these examinations vary across universities, so it's essential to research ahead.

This program spans five years and culminates in professional certifications and a bachelor's degree in Nursing Science (B.NSc). Upon completion, you will be registered as a Registered Nurse (RN), Registered Midwife (RM), or Registered Public Health Nurse (RPH).

Conclusion

With the right preparation and knowledge, the pathway to becoming a nurse in Nigeria is clear. By understanding the entry requirements, pathways, and licensing processes, you can make an informed decision and embark on a rewarding career in healthcare.