08/02/2026
Automating Nursing Licensure in Nigeria: A Proposal for a Computerized Verification System By Nr Odii Oje Precious Kelechi (Unkle Nurse)
The Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) is the statutory body responsible for regulating nursing and midwifery practice in Nigeria. One of the council's primary objectives is to ensure that only licensed professionals practice nursing and midwifery in the country. Currently, verifying the licensure status of nurses and midwives can be a tedious and time-consuming process, and in most occasions never achieved. This article proposes the adoption of a computerized system that utilizes a unique identifier, similar to an ATM card, to verify the licensure status of nurses and midwives in Nigeria.
Background
The nursing profession in Nigeria has experienced significant growth in recent years, with an increasing number of nurses and midwives registering with the NMCN. However, the manual process of verifying licensure status can lead to delays and inefficiencies in the healthcare system. The current system relies on paper-based records, which can be prone to errors, loss, or tampering. Moreover, the manual verification process can be time-consuming, taking away from the time healthcare professionals can devote to patient care.
The Proposed System
The proposed system would involve the use of a unique identifier, such as a smart card or a biometric identifier, that would be linked to a centralized database containing the licensure information of all registered nurses and midwives. This system would enable healthcare employers, regulatory bodies, and other stakeholders to quickly and easily verify the licensure status of nurses and midwives.
The system would work as follows:
1. Registration: Nurses and midwives would be required to register for the system, providing their licensure information and biometric data (e.g., fingerprints or facial recognition).
2. Unique Identifier: Each registered nurse and midwife would be issued a unique identifier, such as a smart card or a token, which would be linked to their licensure information in the centralized database.
3. Verification: When a nurse or midwife presents themselves for employment or verification, their unique identifier would be scanned or entered into the system, and their licensure information would be retrieved from the database.
4. Authentication: The system would authenticate the user's identity using biometric data, ensuring that the person presenting the identifier is the actual license holder.
Benefits
The proposed system would have several benefits, including:
1. Improved Efficiency: The system would enable quick and easy verification of licensure status, reducing the time and resources required for manual verification.
2. Enhanced Security: The use of biometric data and unique identifiers would prevent identity theft and ensure that only authorized individuals can access licensure information.
3. Increased Accuracy: The system would reduce errors and inaccuracies associated with manual verification, ensuring that licensure information is up-to-date and accurate.
4. Improved Patient Safety: By ensuring that only licensed professionals practice nursing and midwifery, the system would contribute to improved patient safety and quality of care.
5. Streamlined Processes: The system would enable healthcare employers and regulatory bodies to streamline their processes, reducing administrative burdens and costs.
Implementation
Implementing the proposed system would require careful planning and ex*****on. The following steps would be necessary:
1. Needs Assessment: Conduct a thorough needs assessment to determine the requirements of the system and the stakeholders involved.
2. System Design: Design the system, including the user interface, database, and security features.
3. Pilot Testing: Conduct pilot testing to ensure the system is functional and effective.
4. Training: Provide training to users, including nurses, midwives, and healthcare employers, on the use of the system.
5. Rollout: Roll out the system to all relevant stakeholders, including healthcare employers, regulatory bodies, and professional associations.
Challenges and Limitations
While the proposed system has several benefits, there are also potential challenges and limitations to consider:
1. Infrastructure: The system would require a robust infrastructure, including hardware, software, and network connectivity.
2. Cost: Implementing and maintaining the system would require significant investment.
3. Data Security: The system would require robust security features to protect sensitive licensure information.
4. User Adoption: The system would require user adoption and training, which can be time-consuming and challenging.
Conclusion
The proposed computerized system for verifying nursing licensure in Nigeria has the potential to improve efficiency, accuracy, and patient safety. By utilizing a unique identifier and biometric data, the system would provide a secure and reliable means of verifying licensure status. We recommend that the NMCN consider implementing this system, which would bring Nigeria's nursing licensure process in line with international best practices.
Recommendations
Based on the proposal, we recommend that the NMCN:
1. Conduct a feasibility study to determine the costs and benefits of implementing the system.
2. Develop a strategic plan for implementing the system, including timelines, milestones, and resource allocation.
3. Collaborate with stakeholders, including healthcare employers, regulatory bodies, and professional associations, to ensure the system meets their needs and requirements.
4. Provide training and support to users, including nurses, midwives, and healthcare employers, to ensure successful adoption and use of the system.
By implementing a computerized system for verifying nursing licensure, Nigeria can take a significant step towards improving the quality and safety of healthcare services.
