New Guidelines For Nigerian Nurses: Two Years Experience Mandatory For Overseas Practice, Says NMCN

New Guidelines For Nigerian Nurses: Two Years Experience Mandatory For Overseas Practice, Says NMCN

The Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) has introduced new guidelines mandating Nigerian nurses and midwives to acquire a minimum of two years of post-qualification work experience before being eligible to practice abroad….READ MORE 700 ‘Fake’ Nigerian Nurses Working For UK’s National Health Service?

This directive, outlined in a circular titled “Revised Guidelines for the Verification of Certificate(s) with the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria for Practice Abroad,” signifies a significant shift in the process for Nigerian healthcare professionals seeking international opportunities.

According to the revised guidelines, which will come into effect on March 1, 2024, nurses and midwives must possess at least two years of post-qualification experience counted from the date of issuance of their permanent practicing license. Additionally, applicants with provisional licenses will be automatically rejected. The council emphasized the importance of having an active practicing license with a minimum of six months remaining before expiration for those seeking relocation.

Furthermore, the NMCN stated that it will require a Letter of Good Standing from the Chief Executive Officer of the applicant’s workplace and the last nursing training institution attended. This requirement aims to ensure that applicants have maintained professional standards and conduct throughout their practice. Responses to these requests should be directed to the Registrar/CEO of the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria.

The application process for verification of certificates has also been updated. Eligible applicants are required to visit the official portal at https://licence.nmen.gov.ng/ to log in and initiate the verification application process. During the application process, applicants must upload Certificates of Registration only, as Notification of Registration will not be accepted. Additionally, a non-refundable fee per application must be paid through the portal to cover the cost of courier services to the applicant’s training institution(s), place of work, and the respective Foreign Board.

The introduction of these new guidelines underscores the NMCN’s commitment to enhancing the standards of nursing education and practice in Nigeria, aligning them with global best practices. While these guidelines may pose challenges for some aspiring nurses and midwives seeking international opportunities, they are designed to ensure that Nigerian healthcare professionals maintain a high level of competency and professionalism, both at home and abroad.

Nurses and midwives intending to practice overseas must carefully adhere to these revised guidelines to avoid any delays or complications in the verification process. By upholding these standards, Nigerian nurses and midwives can continue to make significant contributions to healthcare, both domestically and internationally, while upholding the integrity of the nursing profession.