By Atoyebi Nike
The Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) has scrapped its long-standing rule that disqualified student nurses after three failed attempts at the Council’s professional examinations.
In a circular dated September 1, 2025, and signed by the Registrar/CEO, Ndagi Alhassan, the Council announced that candidates who fail any section of the professional exams will now be allowed to re-sit only that portion until they achieve a pass. The reform takes effect from September 2025.
The circular, titled “Nursing Education Reforms: Elimination of Students After Three Professional Examination Attempts”, was addressed to state commissioners of health, teaching hospital directors, university vice chancellors, nursing school heads, and professional associations.
According to the Council, the reform reflects its commitment to align nursing education with global best practices, shifting from an elimination-driven model to a supportive, student-centered approach.
“Our mission to promote and maintain excellence in nursing and midwifery education and practice calls for a more inclusive academic environment devoted to building resilience and lifelong learning,” the statement read.
The NMCN urged institutions to support struggling students while maintaining standards, noting that at least 80% lecture and clinical attendance will still be required to qualify for re-sits. It further directed that repeated failures would be recorded against the training institutions.
The Council stressed that the change aims to ensure fairness, enhance professional competence, and address widespread concerns about the previous elimination policy.
