Are you considering a career in nursing and searching for the best Approved Schools of Nursing in Nigeria? Choosing the right nursing school is a crucial step in becoming a qualified nurse, and with numerous institutions across the country, it can be a challenging decision.
Whether you’re looking to study in a government-run school or a private institution, you must choose a school that the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) officially recognizes.
In this article, we provide an updated list of Approved Schools of Nursing in Nigeria, including essential details about each school, tuition fees, and additional relevant information to help you make an informed decision.
Table of Contents
- What is a School of Nursing?
- How Many Approved Schools of Nursing are there in Nigeria?
- List of Approved Schools of Nursing in Nigeria
- Private Schools of Nursing in Nigeria
- Federal Schools of Nursing in Nigeria
- School of Nursing Fees in Nigeria
- Which is the First School of Nursing in Nigeria?
- FAQs about Schools of Nursing in Nigeria
- Conclusion
What is a School of Nursing?
A School of Nursing in Nigeria is an institution dedicated to providing specialized education and training to aspiring nurses. These schools offer both theoretical knowledge and hands-on clinical training that equip students with the skills necessary to become Registered Nurses (RN). Nursing schools in Nigeria generally offer diploma programs, and upon graduation, students are eligible to sit for the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria’s licensing exam to become certified nurses.
In addition to academic knowledge, nursing students learn essential skills like patient care, anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, and communication, which are critical for their role in the healthcare system.
How Many Approved Schools of Nursing are There in Nigeria?
There are over 400 nursing schools in Nigeria, but only about 290 are officially approved by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN). Choosing an approved school ensures that the institution adheres to national standards for nursing education, providing a quality education that meets global healthcare demands.
See: Charter Oak High School: What to Know Before Applying
List of Approved Schools of Nursing in Nigeria
Below is a comprehensive list of Approved Schools of Nursing in Nigeria that meet NMCN standards. These schools offer exceptional training and produce highly skilled nurses.
1. School of Nursing, Federal Medical Centre, Umuahia, Abia State
The Federal Medical Centre (FMC) in Umuahia established the School of Nursing in 1984, and it has consistently earned recognition for its excellent nursing programs. The school offers comprehensive training and hands-on clinical experiences.
2. School of Nursing, University of Benin Teaching Hospital, Benin City, Edo State
The University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) founded its School of Nursing in 1973 and has earned a reputation for high educational standards, a robust nursing curriculum, and excellent clinical placements.
3. School of Nursing, Lagos University Teaching Hospital, Lagos State
Located in Lagos, LUTH was founded in 1962 and remains one of Nigeria’s leading nursing schools, offering advanced training and exposure to a wide variety of healthcare scenarios.
4. School of Nursing, Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital, Nnewi
Founded in 1990, NAUTH offers one of the best nursing programs in Nigeria. The school is well-equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and has a strong reputation for training skilled nurses.
5. School of Nursing, University College Hospital, Ibadan
The University College Hospital (UCH) School of Nursing in Ibadan, established in 1957, is one of the oldest and most prestigious nursing schools in Nigeria. It has been instrumental in producing some of the country’s top nurses.
6. School of Nursing, Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex, Ile Ife
Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex (OAUTHC) in Ile Ife has a long history of excellence in nursing education. The school provides students with a top-tier curriculum and modern healthcare exposure.
7. School of Nursing, University of Calabar Teaching Hospital, Calabar, Cross River State
The University of Calabar Teaching Hospital (UCTH) was established in 1979. It is known for its academic excellence, producing well-trained nurses who excel in both clinical and theoretical aspects of nursing.
8. School of Nursing, Federal Medical Centre, Abeokuta, Ogun State
FMC Abeokuta is one of the oldest nursing schools in Nigeria. Founded in 1976, the institution provides comprehensive nursing training with a focus on practical skills and patient care.
9. School of Nursing, Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital, Zaria, Kaduna State
With more than 50 years of experience, ABUTH in Zaria provides a world-class nursing education, preparing students for leadership roles in healthcare.
10. School of Nursing, University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Enugu
Founded in 1971, UNTH Enugu has built a reputation for producing highly skilled nurses who are trained to meet the growing healthcare demands in Nigeria and beyond.
See: Lagos Business School Courses, Fees, Location and Requirements
Private Schools of Nursing in Nigeria
In addition to public institutions, Nigeria is also home to several private nursing schools. These schools offer flexible programs that may cater to different needs. Here are some of the top private Approved Schools of Nursing in Nigeria:
- Redeemer’s University School of Nursing, Ede
- Mater School of Nursing, Afikpo (Ebonyi State)
- School of Basic Midwifery, Anyigba (Kogi State)
- Babcock University School of Nursing, Ilishan-Remo
Federal Schools of Nursing in Nigeria
The following are some of the notable Federal Schools of Nursing in Nigeria:
- University of Port-Harcourt
- University of Maiduguri
- University of Nigeria, Nsukka
- University of Lagos
- Obafemi Awolowo University
- Nnamdi Azikiwe University
These schools are government-funded and provide high-quality education with access to vast resources and clinical placements in top teaching hospitals.
School of Nursing Fees in Nigeria
The cost of nursing education in Nigeria varies widely depending on whether you choose a private or federal school. Here’s a breakdown of approximate tuition fees for various nursing schools:
- College of Nursing, Obangede: ₦150,000 – ₦200,000
- ECWA School of Nursing, Egbe: ₦154,000
- School of Nursing, Abeokuta: ₦50,000 – ₦65,000
- School of Nursing, Akure: ₦195,000 – ₦255,000
- School of Nursing, Ama-Uyo: ₦150,000 – ₦200,000
It’s important to check with the specific school for the most up-to-date fees and any additional costs for uniforms, exams, and materials.
Which School of Nursing is the First in Nigeria?
The School of Nursing Eleyele, founded in 1949, is Nigeria’s first-ever nursing school. It laid the foundation for nursing education in the country and continues to be a prestigious institution.
Which School of Nursing is the Best to Study Nursing in Nigeria?
While the University College Hospital, Ibadan often ranks as one of the best schools for nursing in Nigeria, many other schools on this list offer exceptional training, including LUTH, ABUTH, and UCH.
The choice of school depends on personal preferences such as location, fees, available programs, and clinical placements.
FAQs about Schools of Nursing in Nigeria
What Certificate Does the School of Nursing Offer in Nigeria?
Upon completion of a nursing program in an approved school of nursing, graduates receive the General Nursing Certificate (GNC), which qualifies them to become Registered Nurses (RNs) upon passing the licensing exams.
What is the Difference Between Nursing School and School of Nursing?
A nursing school generally refers to any educational institution that offers nursing programs, including universities. On the other hand, a school of nursing offers nursing diploma programs and is often affiliated with a hospital or teaching facility.
Conclusion
Choosing the right Approved School of Nursing in Nigeria is crucial for your future career as a nurse. The Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria has granted accreditation to the schools listed in this guide, ensuring that you receive quality education and training. Be sure to research tuition fees, available programs, and facilities before making your decision.
By enrolling in any of these institutions, you’re taking the first step toward a rewarding and fulfilling career in nursing, with opportunities to work in hospitals, clinics, schools, and other healthcare settings.
