Every two minutes, a woman dies from pregnancy-related complications in Nigeria. In rural communities where hospitals are hours away, nurse-midwives stand as the last line of defence between life and death. These healthcare heroes deliver over 60% of babies in Nigeria’s underserved areas, often working with limited resources but unlimited determination.
Want to join this life-saving profession? The path isn’t simple, but it’s deeply rewarding. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about becoming a Registered Midwife (RM) in Nigeria – from classroom requirements to salary expectations in 2025.
Why Nigeria Desperately Needs More Nurse-Midwives
Nigeria’s maternal mortality rate remains stubbornly high at 512 deaths per 100,000 live births. Compare this to countries like Rwanda (248) or Ghana (308), and you’ll understand why skilled birth attendants are critical.
Nurse-midwives don’t just deliver babies. They:
- Provide antenatal care to detect complications early
- Manage labour and delivery in normal pregnancies
- Offer postnatal support for new mothers
- Deliver family planning services
- Educate communities about reproductive health
- Handle emergency obstetric situations
In states like Zamfara and Kebbi, where doctor-to-patient ratios are 1:16,000, nurse-midwives often serve as primary healthcare providers. Your skills could literally save two lives with every delivery.
Educational Pathways: Three Routes to Certification
The Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) recognises three distinct pathways to become a qualified midwife. Each has unique requirements and timelines.
Basic Midwifery Programme (Direct Entry)
Perfect for fresh secondary school graduates who want to specialise immediately.
Duration: 3 years (6 semesters) Entry Requirements:
- Minimum 5 O-level credits in English, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics
- Credits must be obtained in maximum 2 sittings (WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB)
- Minimum age: 16 years
- Pass entrance examination and interview
Top Institutions:
- College of Nursing Sciences (CONSA), Adazi-Nnukwu – Established 1938, boasts decades of excellence
- Ogun State College of Nursing Sciences (OGCON), Abeokuta
- St. Joseph’s Hospital School of Midwifery, various locations
Cost Range: ₦300,000 – ₦800,000 per year (varies by institution)
Post-Basic Midwifery Programme (For Registered Nurses)
Ideal for practising nurses seeking specialisation.
Duration: 12-18 months intensive training Prerequisites:
- Valid NMCN registration as a nurse
- Minimum 3 years post-qualification experience
- Current practising licence
- Satisfactory employment record
Leading Institutions:
- University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital (UNTH), Enugu – 100% pass rate for decades
- University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan
- Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH)
The UNTH programme stands out with their motto: “Safe motherhood through quality education.” Their 18-month curriculum combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on clinical experience in tertiary healthcare settings.
Bachelor of Nursing Science (BNSc) with Midwifery Integration
The comprehensive university route for academic excellence.
Duration: 5 years Unique Advantage: Dual registration as both RN and RM upon graduation JAMB Requirements:
- O-level requirements (as above)
- Minimum JAMB score varies by university (typically 200-250)
- Post-UTME screening
Top Universities:
- University of Ibadan (UI)
- University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
- Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria
- National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) – flexible learning options
NMCN Registration: Your Licence to Practice
The Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria controls all aspects of midwifery practice. No NMCN registration means no legal practice – it’s that simple.
Professional Qualifying Examination
After completing your chosen programme, you must pass the NMCN Professional Qualifying Examination.
Exam Structure:
- Computer-based test
- Multiple choice questions
- Pass mark: 50%
- Covers: Midwifery practice, obstetrics, neonatal care, ethics
Registration Fees (2024):
- Basic registration: ₦61,092
- Annual practising licence: ₦15,000 – ₦25,000
- Late renewal penalties apply
Step-by-Step Registration Process
- Collect your Council Index Number from your training institution
- Visit the NMCN portal at registration.nmcn.gov.ng
- Upload required documents:
- Academic transcripts/certificates
- Birth certificate
- Passport photographs
- Medical fitness certificate
- Pay registration fees via designated banks
- Schedule examination after document verification
- Complete 6-month supervised internship post-exam
- Receive your RM certificate and practising licence
Foreign-Trained Graduates: Additional requirements include credential evaluation by the Federal Ministry of Education and potential bridging courses.
Core Responsibilities: Beyond the Delivery Room
Modern nurse-midwives wear many hats. Your scope of practice extends far beyond catching babies.
Antenatal Care Excellence
Primary responsibilities:
- Monitor fetal development through regular check-ups
- Detect high-risk pregnancies early
- Provide nutritional counselling
- Educate about danger signs
- Administer routine vaccinations
- Counsel on birth preparedness
Cultural competency matters. In Northern Nigeria, respecting traditional beliefs while providing evidence-based care requires exceptional communication skills.
Intrapartum Management
During labour and delivery, you’ll:
- Assess labour progress using partographs
- Provide pain management support
- Conduct normal vaginal deliveries
- Identify complications requiring medical intervention
- Perform episiotomies when necessary
- Handle immediate newborn care
Emergency situations you must handle include:
- Postpartum haemorrhage
- Prolonged labour
- Retained placenta
- Newborn resuscitation
- Pre-eclampsia/eclampsia
Postnatal Care and Family Planning
Your role continues after delivery:
- Monitor maternal recovery
- Support breastfeeding initiation
- Provide newborn care education
- Identify postpartum depression
- Offer family planning counselling
- Schedule follow-up visits
Career Opportunities Across Nigeria’s Healthcare Landscape
Qualified nurse-midwives enjoy diverse employment options with varying compensation packages.
Public Sector Opportunities
Federal Medical Centres:
- Starting salary: ₦1.8M – ₦2.5M annually
- Benefits include housing allowances, hazard pay
- Clear promotion pathways
State Hospitals:
- Salary range: ₦1.5M – ₦2.2M annually
- Varies significantly by state
- Lagos and Abuja offer highest compensation
Primary Healthcare Centres:
- Rural posting allowances available
- Community health focus
- Lower salaries but meaningful impact
Private Sector Advantages
Private Hospitals:
- 30% higher salaries than public counterparts
- Better working conditions
- Performance-based bonuses
- Range: ₦2.0M – ₦3.5M annually
Maternity Homes:
- Entrepreneurial opportunities
- Direct patient relationships
- Income varies by location and clientele
NGO and International Opportunities
Medical NGOs like Médecins Sans Frontières, USAID, and Save the Children offer:
- Competitive international salaries
- Hazard pay for conflict zones
- Professional development opportunities
- Tax-free compensation packages
Salary Range: $15,000 – $35,000 annually plus benefits
Specialisation Pathways
Advanced training opens higher-paying opportunities:
Neonatal Resuscitation Specialist: +₦800,000 annually High-Risk Pregnancy Manager: +₦600,000 annually
Midwifery Educator: University positions ₦3M – ₦5M annually Public Health Specialist: Policy and programme roles
Regional Salary Breakdown (2025 Data)
| Region | Public Sector | Private Sector | NGO Sector |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lagos/Abuja | ₦2.2M – ₦3.0M | ₦2.8M – ₦4.2M | $20K – $35K |
| South-East | ₦1.8M – ₦2.5M | ₦2.3M – ₦3.5M | $15K – $28K |
| South-West | ₦1.9M – ₦2.7M | ₦2.5M – ₦3.8M | $18K – $32K |
| North-Central | ₦1.7M – ₦2.3M | ₦2.2M – ₦3.2M | $16K – $30K |
| North-East/West | ₦1.5M – ₦2.1M | ₦2.0M – ₦3.0M | $17K – $33K |
Note: NGO salaries in USD reflect international funding sources
Overcoming Professional Challenges
Every nurse-midwife in Nigeria faces systemic challenges. Here’s how successful practitioners navigate them.
Resource Constraints
The Reality: 78% of midwives report shortages of basic supplies like gloves and sutures during deliveries.
Survival Strategies:
- Master improvisation techniques using available materials
- Build relationships with suppliers for emergency procurement
- Advocate for better resource allocation through professional associations
- Use WHO-approved clean birth kits during shortages
Cultural Barriers
The Challenge: 40% of rural women reject skilled birth attendance due to cultural beliefs.
Effective Approaches:
- Partner with traditional birth attendants (TBAs)
- Learn local languages and customs
- Involve community leaders in health education
- Respect traditional practices while ensuring safety
Work-Life Balance Issues
Common Problems:
- 12-hour shifts becoming 16-hour marathons
- Being on-call during emergencies
- Emotional stress from maternal deaths
Coping Mechanisms:
- Join support groups like National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM)
- Practice stress management techniques
- Seek professional counselling when needed
- Build strong colleague networks
Financial Planning for Your Education
The investment in midwifery education pays dividends, but initial costs require planning.
Funding Options
Government Scholarships:
- State government bursary awards
- National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) sponsorships
- Federal scholarship schemes
Private Funding:
- Milo Mindset Foundation healthcare scholarships
- Tony Elumelu Foundation entrepreneurship programmes
- Church and community sponsorships
- Bank educational loans (8-15% interest rates)
Cost-Benefit Analysis
Total Investment (3-year Basic Programme):
- Tuition: ₦900,000 – ₦2,400,000
- NMCN registration: ₦61,092
- Living expenses: ₦300,000 – ₦600,000 annually
- Books and materials: ₦150,000 – ₦300,000
Break-even Timeline: 18-24 months after graduation
Lifetime Earning Potential: ₦90M – ₦150M over 35-year career
Technology and Modern Midwifery Practice
Digital health tools are transforming midwifery practice across Nigeria.
Essential Tech Skills
Electronic Health Records (EHR):
- DHIS2 system proficiency
- OpenMRS familiarity
- Data entry accuracy
Mobile Health (mHealth):
- Using smartphones for patient education
- Telemedicine consultations
- Mobile appointment scheduling
Diagnostic Equipment:
- Portable ultrasound operation
- Digital fetal monitoring
- Blood pressure monitoring devices
Continuing Professional Development (CPD)
NMCN Requirements:
- Minimum 40 CPD points annually
- Attendance at professional conferences
- Online course completion certificates
- Journal publication contributions
Popular CPD Providers:
- WHO Collaborating Centres
- UNICEF Emergency Obstetric Care courses
- Jhpiego maternal health training
- Royal College of Midwives (RCM) online modules
Building Your Professional Network
Success in Nigerian midwifery requires strong professional relationships.
Key Professional Associations
National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM):
- Advocacy for better working conditions
- Salary negotiation support
- Professional development opportunities
- Legal protection services
International Confederation of Midwives (ICM):
- Global best practices access
- International conference participation
- Research collaboration opportunities
Society of Gynaecology and Obstetrics of Nigeria (SOGON):
- Interdisciplinary networking
- Advanced training opportunities
- Research funding possibilities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can males become nurse-midwives in Nigeria? A: Yes, programmes like CONSA accept male applicants. While traditionally female-dominated, male midwives bring valuable perspectives and are increasingly welcomed in the profession.
Q: What’s the age limit for post-basic midwifery programmes? A: No strict upper age limit exists, but most successful candidates are between 25-35 years with substantial nursing experience.
Q: Are online midwifery programmes recognised by NMCN? A: Currently, NMCN requires in-person clinical training. While theoretical components might be delivered online, practical skills must be demonstrated in approved clinical settings.
Q: How does Nigeria’s midwifery training compare internationally? A: Nigerian midwifery programmes meet International Confederation of Midwives (ICM) standards. Graduates can practice in many countries after additional certification requirements.
Q: What happens if I fail the NMCN examination? A: You can retake the examination after additional preparation. Many candidates use the waiting period for extra clinical experience or focused study.
Q: Can I specialise while working as a general midwife? A: Yes, many specialisations offer part-time or weekend programmes. Popular options include reproductive health, neonatal care, and midwifery education.
Your Next Steps: Action Plan for Success
Ready to start your journey? Here’s your immediate action plan:
Phase 1: Academic Preparation (6-12 months)
- Verify your O-level results meet NMCN requirements
- Research and shortlist 3-5 preferred institutions
- Prepare for entrance examinations using past questions
- Arrange financing through scholarships or family support
Phase 2: Application Process (3-6 months)
- Submit applications to multiple institutions
- Attend entrance examinations and interviews
- Accept admission from your preferred institution
- Complete pre-admission medical examinations
Phase 3: Training Excellence (3-5 years)
- Maintain high academic standards (minimum 60% average)
- Maximise clinical exposure through internships
- Build professional relationships with mentors
- Prepare systematically for NMCN examinations
Phase 4: Professional Launch (6-12 months)
- Pass NMCN examinations on first attempt
- Complete supervised internship successfully
- Apply for positions in preferred locations
- Join professional associations for ongoing support
The Ripple Effect of Your Career Choice
Choosing midwifery isn’t just selecting a career – you’re committing to transform lives across generations. Every complication you catch early, every difficult delivery you manage, every new mother you counsel creates ripples that extend far beyond your immediate patient.
In Nigeria’s healthcare landscape, where resources are limited but needs are unlimited, skilled nurse-midwives represent hope. Your expertise bridges the gap between life and death, between despair and joy, between communities struggling with poor maternal health and those celebrating healthy mothers and babies.
The road ahead won’t always be smooth. You’ll face long hours, emotional challenges, and systemic frustrations. But you’ll also experience the indescribable joy of placing a healthy baby in a mother’s arms, the satisfaction of preventing complications through early intervention, and the respect of communities who depend on your skills.
Nigeria needs 10,000 additional nurse-midwives by 2027 to meet WHO targets. Your decision to join this profession directly contributes to achieving this goal and improving maternal health outcomes across the nation.
Start today. Research your preferred pathway, gather your documents, and take the first step toward a career that will challenge, fulfil, and reward you for decades to come. The mothers and babies of Nigeria are counting on professionals like you to be their champions, advocates, and skilled caregivers.
Your journey to becoming a nurse-midwife begins with a single decision. Make it today.