NMCN Approves Arabic and Islamic Certificates as Alternatives to WAEC, NECO for Nursing Programme Admission

The Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) has officially directed nursing institutions across the country to accept the Senior Arabic and Islamic Secondary School Certificate Examination (SAISSCE) as a valid alternative to WAEC and NECO for admission into nursing programmes. 

According to a report by Sahara Reporters, the directive was issued via a circular signed by Ndagi Alhassan, Acting Registrar and CEO of NMCN, and was sent to key stakeholders including commissioners of health, vice chancellors, nursing directors, and teaching hospitals. 

The Council reaffirmed SAISSCE’s recognition as equivalent to other senior secondary school qualifications, emphasizing the need for inclusivity and equal opportunity in nursing education. 

The circular referenced the Federal Government and National Council on Education’s endorsement of SAISSCE during its 57th meeting in Sokoto in February 2011. 

Institutions were instructed to consider applicants with SAISSCE based on programme-specific requirements and ensure compliance with the directive, as part of efforts to uphold excellence in nursing education aligned with global standards.