History of Nursing in Nigeria dates back to the colonial era. Female, as well as male, traditional caregivers and healers provided health care to relatives and individuals within communities prior to the development of formal nursing.
They used herbal remedies and conventional practices in treating illnesses and complications during childbirth.
The introduction of western medicine and formal training in nursing came to Nigeria with the British colonial rule. British colonial administrators and missionaries were responsible for establishing healthcare facilities, which gave birth to the nursing profession.
History of Nursing in Nigeria
The history of nursing in Nigeria is very much associated with the development of healthcare institutions in the country. In the early years, students who wanted to pursue a career in nursing had to travel abroad for training as there were no schools within the country.
As hospitals increased in number, the need for trained nurses skyrocketed, leading to the establishment of indigenous nursing schools.
In 1949, the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) was established to regulate nursing education and practice. This body ensures schools of nursing adhere to high standards, and it administers licensing examinations to award competent nurses.
Currently, nursing education in Nigeria involves various paths, from diploma courses in schools of nursing to bachelor’s and postgraduate degrees in universities.
First School of Nursing in Nigeria
The first official school of nursing in Nigeria was the University College Hospital (UCH), School of Nursing in Ibadan, founded in 1952. The school was instrumental in the evolution of nursing education in Nigeria, setting the pace for later nursing schools.
Later, other nursing schools were established in other states, expanding the door to nursing education for more Nigerians.
Today, Nigeria has numerous accredited schools of nursing offering diploma, degree, and postgraduate nursing courses.
How to Become a Registered Nurse in Nigeria
To become a registered nurse in Nigeria, you should follow these steps:
1. Meet the Educational Requirements
You need at least five credits in the above-stated subjects of English, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics in your WAEC, NECO, or any other exam.
2. Choose a Nursing Course
You have two choices either to enroll in a School of Nursing for a diploma program (three years) or for a Bachelor of Nursing Science (BNSc) course in a university (five years).
3. Complete the Mandatory Training
Nursing also has theoretical and clinical training in hospitals.
4. Pass the Licensing Exam
After completing your nursing course, you must appear for the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) exam.
5. Obtain Your Practicing License
On clearing the exam, you obtain a practicing license, which allows you to practice as a registered nurse in Nigeria.
6. Specialize
You can specialize in pediatric nursing, anesthetic nursing, or public health nursing to move your career forward.
READ ALSO: Accredited Universities Offering Distance Learning Programs for Nursing in Nigeria
Nurses Salary in Nigeria
Nurse salaries in Nigeria vary based on experience, location, and working place. On average:
- Entry-level nurses earn between ₦80,000 to ₦120,000 per month in government hospitals.
- Mid-level nurses earn between ₦150,000 to ₦250,000 per month.
- Experienced nurses and specialists earn ₦300,000 or more per month.
- Private hospital nurses receive lower salaries than government hospital nurses, ranging from ₦50,000 to ₦150,000 per month.
Other incentives such as housing allowance, medical cover, and pension scheme may be offered depending on the employer.
Nurses Responsibilities
Your responsibilities as a nurse in Nigeria include:
- Direct patient care and treatment administration
- Aiding doctors in medical procedures and surgeries
- Educating patients and their families about health conditions and treatment
- Monitoring the progress and vital signs of patients
- Proper dispensation of medication and dosing
- Maintenance of proper patient records
- Providing counseling and emotional support to patients
- Participation in sensitization campaigns and community health programs
- Waging a battle for patient rights and better healthcare policy
Nursing Schools in Nigeria that are accredited
If you want to study nursing in Nigeria, you should ensure that the school you attend is accredited by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN). The following are some of the nursing schools in Nigeria that are accredited:
1. University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan
2. Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) School of Nursing
3. Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria
4. University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) Nursing School
5. Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife
6. University of Benin (UNIBEN) Nursing School
7. National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) Nursing Program
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is it possible to study nursing in Nigeria without JAMB?
Yes, you may enroll in a School of Nursing for a diploma program without JAMB. University nursing programs, however, require JAMB.
2. For how long can one be a nurse in Nigeria?
Three years for a diploma and five years for a degree of BNSc.
3. Is it a sustainable profession to pursue as a career in Nigeria?
Yes, nursing is a rewarding career with job stability and the ability to specialize.
4. Do I have chances to get jobs outside Nigeria using a Nigerian degree in nursing?
Yes, but you might have to take additional exams and meet the requirements of the nation in which you would be employed.
5. Is there an online nursing program from Nigeria?
There are online nursing courses offered by some schools, but the practical exposure must be done on a physical level.
Conclusion
Nursing is a much-valued profession in Nigeria with a noble history that developed from age-old carework into a highly specific, professional vocation. The presence of nursing schools and regulatory bodies has helped in offering levels of practice and education of quality. With growing demand for the provision of healthcare, nursing remains an up-rising and highly successful career in Nigeria and globally.
