By: Chioma Madonna Ndukwu
The recent suspension of license verification services by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) has led to the rejection of job applications from Nigerian nurses in the United States and Canada. This suspension, which began in February 2024, has stranded hundreds of Nigerian nurses, leaving them unable to verify their qualifications and apply for jobs abroad.
The Nigerian Medical Association expressed deep regret over the situation, criticizing the directive from the House of Representatives that led to the indefinite suspension. They described the move as an “unprecedented infringement of Nurses’ fundamental human rights,” effectively preventing Nigerian nurses from working abroad. They likened the situation to “mass kidnapping” by keeping nurses confined to Nigeria against their will.
The Texas Board of Nursing and Alberta Health Services in Canada, among other institutions, have halted the application processes for Nigerian nurses due to the inability to verify their licensure. They have indicated that they will not proceed with any applications until the NMCN reopens the verification portal.
Source: Gists9ja
