What Is Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) and How to Acquire It In 2024?

Are you considering a career in nursing or midwifery in Nigeria? If so, you'll need to become familiar with the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN). This regulatory body plays an important role in ensuring the standards and quality of nursing and midwifery practice across the country. Let's go even deeper to what the NMCN is all about and the steps to acquire it.

What is the NMCN In Nigeria?

The Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) is a statutory body established by the Nigerian government to regulate the nursing and midwifery professions in the country. It was created under the Nursing and Midwifery Registration etc. Act Cap N143, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004. The primary goal of the NMCN is to safeguard the health and well-being of the public by ensuring that nurses and midwives adhere to professional standards and ethical practices.

Functions of the NMCN In Nigeria

1. Regulation: The NMCN regulates the education, training, and practice of nursing and midwifery in Nigeria to ensure that practitioners meet set standards.

2. Accreditation: It accredits nursing and midwifery training institutions to maintain quality education and training programs.

3. Licensure Examination: The council conducts licensure examinations for nurses and midwives to assess their competency before they can practice.

4. Registration: Nurses and midwives must register with the NMCN to practice legally in Nigeria.

5. Ethical Standards: The NMCN establishes and enforces ethical standards and codes of conduct for nurses and midwives.

Steps to Acquire NMCN Registration In Nigeria

If you aspire to become a registered nurse or midwife in Nigeria, here are the steps you need to follow to acquire NMCN registration:

1. Education and Training: Complete a nursing or midwifery program accredited by the NMCN. This typically involves obtaining a nursing or midwifery qualification from a recognized institution.
 
2. Pass Licensure Examination: After completing your education and training, you must pass the licensure examination conducted by the NMCN. This examination assesses your knowledge and competence in nursing or midwifery practice.

3. Application for Registration: Once you pass the licensure examination, you can apply for registration with the NMCN. Submit the required documents, including your educational certificates, birth certificate, and proof of passing the licensure examination, to the council.

4. Payment of Fees: Pay the registration fees as stipulated by the NMCN. This fee covers the processing of your registration application.

5. Issuance of Certificate: Upon successful completion of the registration process and verification of your credentials, the NMCN will issue you a certificate of registration. This certificate confirms your status as a registered nurse or midwife in Nigeria.

6. Renewal of Registration: Registered nurses and midwives are required to renew their registration with the NMCN periodically to maintain their licensure and continue practicing legally.