The sudden deactivation of the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) verification portal in February has left numerous Nigerian nurses abroad in a difficult situation. Many are unable to renew their licenses or meet the requirements of international regulatory bodies, leading to job losses and legal issues.
Some nurses, particularly in the UK and US, have been forced to return to Nigeria due to visa violations stemming from the delay. Despite the withdrawal of a court case on the matter, the portal remains closed, causing uncertainty for healthcare professionals. Efforts by the National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM) to resolve the issue continue, with hopes that the portal will be reopened soon.
Nurses affected by this delay are facing deportation risks and career stagnation, with many expressing frustration over the lack of progress. The situation has drawn criticism from civil society groups, calling on the government to support Nigerians pursuing better opportunities abroad.
