According to reports, the NMCN has circulated a memo to key stakeholders in the health and education sectors. Recipients of the directive include state Commissioners of Health, Vice Chancellors of universities, Provosts of relevant institutions, Directors of Nursing Services, and authorities of university teaching hospitals. The circular emphasizes the Council's dedication to ensuring that all officially recognized qualifications are given due consideration in the admission process for aspiring nurses.
The memo, reportedly signed by Ndagi Alhassan, the acting Registrar and Chief Executive Officer of the Nursing and Midwifery Council, explicitly states that the SAISSCE holds equal standing with other widely recognized secondary school certificates such as the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) Senior School Certificate Examination and the National Examinations Council (NECO) Senior School Certificate Examination for the purpose of admission into nursing programmes.
A key excerpt from the memo reads: “Please ensure that candidates presenting the SAISSCE are given due consideration for admission based on the specific requirements of the programme.” This direct instruction leaves no ambiguity regarding the Council's expectation that institutions will recognize and accept the SAISSCE qualification from eligible candidates.
The NMCN further provided context for this directive by highlighting its alignment with existing government policies and educational approvals. The memo explicitly references the Federal Government’s approvals and the National Council on Education (NCE)’s approval of the SAISSCE, which was granted in February 2011 during its 57th meeting held in Sokoto, Nigeria. This historical context underscores that the NMCN's current directive is not a new policy but rather a reinforcement of existing national educational standards.
The Council concluded its directive with a clear call for compliance, stating, “Ensure compliance with this directive and bring the content of this circular to the attention of all concerned.” This emphasizes the mandatory nature of the instruction and the expectation that all relevant institutions will adhere to the guidelines outlined in the memo.
Furthermore, the NMCN expressed its appreciation for the cooperation of stakeholders in its efforts to uphold and enhance the quality of nursing education and practice in Nigeria. The memo concluded by stating, “Thank you for your cooperation with the Council in promoting and maintaining excellence in nursing education and practice in Nigeria in line with global best practice.” This acknowledges the collaborative role of various institutions in achieving the Council's overarching goals.
This renewed emphasis on the acceptance of SAISSCE as a valid entry qualification is a significant step towards creating a more inclusive and diverse nursing workforce in Nigeria. By recognizing a broader range of educational backgrounds, the NMCN is potentially opening doors for more qualified individuals to pursue careers in nursing, ultimately contributing to the strengthening of the healthcare sector in the country. This directive aligns with the broader national goals of ensuring equitable access to education and professional opportunities for all eligible citizens, regardless of their specific educational pathways.