Hundreds of Nigerian nurses working in the UK and US are facing a crisis after the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) suddenly shut down its certificate verification portal in February.
The portal’s closure has left many nurses unable to renew their licenses and meet international regulatory requirements, resulting in terminated employment, revoked visas, and even deportation.
Despite assurances from the NMCN that the portal would soon reopen, the delay has caused significant uncertainty and frustration among affected nurses.
The National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives has been working with the government to resolve the issue, but many nurses are still struggling to find a solution.
The situation has highlighted the challenges faced by Nigerian healthcare professionals working abroad and the need for a reliable and efficient verification process.
Affected nurses have expressed their distress and frustration, with some describing the situation as “suicidal” and “devastating” to their careers.
The government’s handling of the portal’s closure has also been criticized, with some questioning why other healthcare professionals, such as doctors and pharmacists, are not facing similar challenges.
As the situation continues to unfold, many Nigerian nurses abroad are left wondering when they will be able to resume their careers and provide critical healthcare services to patients in need.