The Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) has abolished its long-standing policy that disqualified students from training after three failed attempts at the Council’s professional examinations.
In a circular dated September 1, 2025, and signed by the Registrar/Chief Executive Officer, Ndagi Alhassan, the Council announced that affected candidates will now be allowed to retake only the part of the examination they fail until they achieve a pass mark. However, such students must maintain at least 80 percent attendance in lectures and clinical postings.
The circular, titled “Nursing education reform: Elimination of students after three professional examination attempts,” was addressed to Commissioners of Health Services, universities offering Nursing Science programmes, Chief Medical Directors, and proprietors of nursing training institutions.
According to Alhassan, the reform is part of the Council’s commitment to building a more student-centered, flexible, and inclusive learning environment that aligns with global best practices.
“Our mission to promote and maintain excellence in nursing and midwifery education calls for a more inclusive academic environment that builds resilience and interest in lifelong learning,” the statement read.
The Council explained that while the old policy sought to uphold professional standards and prevent quackery, it had become a growing concern. The shift, therefore, is designed to encourage student achievement while maintaining quality assurance.
From September 2025, candidates who fail any part of the professional examination will be required to re-sit only that part until successful. Each failed re-sit attempt, however, will count against the student’s institution, with the Council urging heads of training schools to strengthen academic support systems.
“The Council appeals to Heads of Institutions to implement strategies that will help all students succeed, especially those who may need more support and time to improve their knowledge,” Alhassan added.
The reform underscores the NMCN’s ongoing review of nursing and midwifery education standards to meet Nigeria’s evolving healthcare needs and prepare professionals for global competitiveness.
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