Nigerian Nurses Face ‘Professional Imprisonment’ as NMCN Allegedly Blocks License Verifications for Overseas Work

Nigerian nurses are reportedly facing severe restrictions on their career mobility as the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) allegedly refuses to verify their licenses—a critical requirement for those seeking to work abroad. 

 

This issue, which has sparked outrage and concern, was highlighted by Dr. Olufunmilayo, a prominent Nigerian doctor on X (formerly Twitter), who described the situation as a form of “professional imprisonment.” 

 

According to Dr. Olufunmilayo, this action by the NMCN effectively traps nurses in Nigeria, preventing them from pursuing better opportunities in countries like the UK, USA, and Saudi Arabia.

 

The impact of the NMCN’s alleged refusal to verify licenses extends beyond Nigeria’s borders, as Nigerian nurses already working abroad are also affected. Without the necessary verification, they face job losses and are unable to transition to new opportunities in other countries. 

 

Dr. Olufunmilayo emphasized, “Nigerian nurses are overworked, underpaid, overused, underappreciated, and unfulfilled with their work in Nigeria. This is why they want to leave.” 

 

The current economic instability in Nigeria has exacerbated the situation, making it more crucial for professionals to seek better job prospects abroad. 

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However, the alleged actions of the NMCN have stifled these opportunities, leading to widespread frustration and despair among the nursing community.

 

This situation raises significant concerns about the broader implications for other professions. Dr. Olufunmilayo warned that if nurses are restricted in this manner, it could set a precedent for other professionals, such as doctors, pharmacists, and engineers, to face similar challenges. 

 

The government’s actions—or inaction—in this matter are viewed as contradictory to the democratic principles that Nigeria claims to uphold. 

 

 

Lastly, there is a need for the government to address this issue and ensure that Nigerian professionals are given the freedom to explore and advance in their careers without unnecessary hindrances.