Nigerian Nurses in Limbo

A recent revision by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) has again thrust the country’s healthcare system into the spotlight, raising concerns about the impact on nurses and their welfare. The revision, which tightens the criteria for foreign certificate verification, has ignited a firestorm of debate, with nurses protesting the perceived infringement on their mobility and experts pondering the long-term ramifications for Nigeria’s healthcare landscape.

At the heart of the controversy lies the post-qualification experience requirement, requiring applicants to have at least two years of post-qualification experience from their permanent practising license issuance date. Previously, Nigerian nurses seeking verification of foreign nursing qualifications faced no such hurdle. The NMCN argues this revision aims to stem the tide of nurses emigrating for better opportunities abroad, a phenomenon exacerbating the nation’s already critical understaffing. With an estimated 800,000 additional nurses needed to meet current healthcare demands, losing qualified personnel is a significant blow.

However, the revision has struck a raw nerve with many nurses, with threats of national strikes, protests and mass emigration. The revision is seen as an unnecessary restriction on their career aspirations and a violation of their rights to seek better opportunities. Protests have erupted across the country, with nurses decrying the move as a curb on their professional development and a disincentive to return after gaining valuable experience abroad.

The impact of this revision on patients is also a key concern. With fewer nurses available, access to quality healthcare could be compromised, particularly in rural areas already struggling with limited resources. The revision may exacerbate the existing brain drain as frustrated nurses may seek alternative career paths or emigrate through unofficial channels. In The Exodus, Nextier argues that as much as the brain drain in Nigeria must be addressed to aid development, measures should not be at the expense of skilled workers; instead, root causes should be addressed to make the country appealing to migration enthusiasts. While the NMCN’s concerns about understaffing are valid, the revision’s effectiveness in retaining nurses remains to be determined. Addressing the root causes of emigration, such as poor working conditions, low salaries, and inadequate infrastructure, might be more sustainable in the long run.

Furthermore, the potential violation of nurses’ rights cannot be ignored. Striking a balance between national healthcare needs and individual career aspirations is crucial. Open dialogue and collaboration between the National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives (NANNM), the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN), and the government are essential to find a solution that benefits nurses and the national interest. Ultimately, the revision has exposed the deep-seated issues plaguing Nigeria’s healthcare system. While the NMCN’s concerns are legitimate, implementing this revision requires careful consideration and potentially significant adjustments to avoid gross policy errors. Attempting to frustrate migration efforts may cost the healthcare system much-needed manpower. Only by addressing the underlying causes of nurse emigration and safeguarding individual rights can Nigeria hope to build a robust and sustainable healthcare system for its citizens.

Recommended Reading
BBC’s Documentary on SCOAN: A Satire on Nigeria’s Health System