Nursing is a highly respected and rewarding profession that plays a critical role in healthcare provision. In Nigeria, the demand for competent nurses is continually increasing due to population growth and the need for quality healthcare services. If you want to become a nurse, enrolling in an accredited school of nursing is the first step.
This blog post provides a comprehensive guide on schools of nursing in Nigeria, reasons to study nursing, career pathways, nursing specialties, prerequisites for admission, and nurses’ responsibilities.
List of Schools of Nursing in Nigeria
Nigeria has numerous accredited nursing schools, which are categorized into federal, state, and private institutions.
These institutions offer different nursing programs leading to the award of Registered Nurse (RN), Registered Midwife (RM), and Bachelor of Nursing Science (B.NSc.), among others.
Below is a list of some schools of nursing in Nigeria, categorized into federal, state, and private institutions.
Federal Schools of Nursing in Nigeria
1. University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital (UNTH), Enugu
2. University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan
3. Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital (ABUTH), Zaria
4. Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), Lagos
5. Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital (UDUTH), Sokoto
State Schools of Nursing in Nigeria
1. School of Nursing, Akure, Ondo State
2. School of Nursing, Abeokuta, Ogun State
3. School of Nursing, Osogbo, Osun State
4. School of Nursing, Katsina, Katsina State
5. School of Nursing, Ilorin, Kwara State
Private Schools of Nursing in Nigeria
1. Bowen University School of Nursing, Ogbomosho
2. Babcock University School of Nursing, Ogun State
3. Afe Babalola University School of Nursing, Ado-Ekiti
4. Igbinedion University School of Nursing, Edo State
5. Madonna University School of Nursing, Anambra State
Each school has different admission requirements and tuition fees. It is necessary to check the accreditation status, tuition costs, curriculum, and clinical training experience before selecting a school. Click here to download the list of accredited School of Nursing in Nigeria by NMCN
Why Should I Study Nursing in Nigeria?
There are several advantages to studying nursing in Nigeria. Some of them are:
1. High Demand for Nurses
There is a shortage of qualified nurses in Nigeria, creating a high demand for professionals in hospitals, clinics, and health centers.
2. Job Stability and Security
Nursing is a stable career within the healthcare profession, offering job security and numerous employment opportunities in government hospitals, private hospitals, NGOs, and global health institutions.
3. Opportunity for Career Growth
You can advance your career by pursuing higher education, specializing in specific fields, or working abroad for better remuneration and working conditions.
4. Competitive Salary and Benefits
While salaries for nurses vary based on experience and location, government hospitals and international health agencies offer competitive salaries, allowances, and employment benefits.
5. Ability to Make a Difference
Nursing is a profession of service, where practitioners save lives, provide compassionate care, and promote public health. It is one of the most fulfilling healthcare careers.
Nursing Career Paths in Nigeria
There are several educational and career routes to becoming a nurse in Nigeria. The most common routes include:
1. School of Nursing (RN Certificate)
A 3-year diploma program that results in the Registered Nurse (RN) certification.
You may work as a nurse or pursue further education in midwifery or post-basic specializations.
2. University Bachelor of Nursing Science (B.NSc.)
A 5-year university program that culminates in a B.NSc. degree.
You are qualified as a Registered Nurses (RN), Registered Midwives (RM), and Public Health Nurses (PHN).
3. Midwifery and Post-Basic Nursing
Further training in midwifery (RM) or specializations such as pediatrics, anesthetics, and psychiatric nursing.
4. Advanced Nursing Specializations
With experience, you can specialize in fields such as critical care, oncology, cardiology, and public health.
5. International Nursing Opportunities
You can take international licensure exams such as the NCLEX-RN (USA), CBT/OSCE (UK), or Canadian nursing exams to practice abroad.
Nursing Specialties for New Graduates
After becoming a Registered Nurse (RN), you can specialize in various fields, including:
1. Midwifery Nursing (RM)
Focuses on maternal welfare, pregnancy, and childbirth.
2. Pediatric Nursing
Specializes in childcare and neonate care.
3. Critical Care Nursing
Involves ICU and emergency patient care.
4. Oncology Nursing
Deals with cancer treatment and patient management.
5. Geriatric Nursing
Specializes in elderly patient care.
6. Psychiatric Nursing
Focuses on mental health care.
7. Community Health Nursing
Involves public health education, disease prevention, and health promotion.
Prerequisites for Nursing School in Nigeria
Before applying to a nursing school, you must meet the following requirements:
1. Educational Requirements
You must have an O’Level certificate (WAEC/NECO/NABTEB) with a minimum of five credits in the following subjects:
English Language
Mathematics
Biology
Chemistry
Physics
2. Age Requirement
You must be between 17 and 35 years old.
3. Entrance Examination & Interview
Most schools conduct a written entrance examination and an interview as part of the admission process.
4. Medical Fitness
You must pass a medical fitness test.
Nurses Responsibilities
Nurses play a vital role in healthcare. Their responsibilities include:
1. Patient Care and Assessment
Measuring patients’ vital signs
Administering medication
Providing direct patient care
2. Assisting Doctors and Medical Teams
Preparing for medical procedures and surgeries
Providing emergency care
3. Health Education and Counseling
Educating patients on disease prevention, hygiene, and healthy lifestyles
4. Wound Dressing and First Aid
Treating wounds, burns, and other emergency conditions
5. Medical Record-Keeping
Documenting patients’ medical history and treatment progress
6. Crisis Management and Emergency Response
Responding to major medical emergencies and traumatic cases
READ ALSO: Top Best Nursing Opportunities in Clinical Settings
Conclusion
Nursing is a highly esteemed profession in Nigeria, offering job stability, career growth, and opportunities for international practice. To become a nurse, you must complete an accredited nursing program and pass the required licensure exams.
Nurses also have various specialization options, including pediatrics, midwifery, critical care, and public health. Choosing the right nursing school and career path can lead to a fulfilling and rewarding profession. Click here to download the list of accredited School of Nursing in Nigeria by NMCN
