The nursing profession in Nigeria is a vital component of the healthcare system, providing essential services and care across various medical settings.
However, the sector faces several challenges, including limited resources, inadequate training facilities, and the migration of skilled nurses to more developed countries in search of better opportunities.
The allure of a lucrative career in nursing in the United States has captivated many Nigerian nurses and aspiring healthcare professionals.
The U.S. offers not only competitive salaries but also a wealth of opportunities for professional growth and development.
For a Nigerian nurse looking to transition to the U.S., or for someone in Nigeria aspiring to start a career in nursing, understanding the necessary steps and associated costs is crucial.
This feature story explores these pathways that Nigerians can take to become lucrative nurses in the United States.
Nigerian nurses typically hold a diploma or degree in nursing from an accredited institution.
However, to practice in the U.S., one must have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or an equivalent degree.
Nurses who possess a diploma or an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) are advised to enrol in a bridging program to obtain a BSN.
Those with a bachelor’s degree in Nursing are to apply for a nursing license in the preferred state in the U.S, where they plan to work.
Each U.S. state has its nursing board, and every nurse must apply for a license in the state where they plan to work.
This process involves submitting your credential evaluation report, proof of English proficiency, and passing the NCLEX-RN. Licensing fees vary by state but typically range from $100 to $300.
Nigerian nurses would then apply and obtain a visa to work in the U.S.
Nigerians who wish to practice nursing but haven’t studied nursing have two options. They can pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree in an accredited Nigerian university and follow the pathway for transitioning.
The second option is to pursue a bachelor’s degree in nursing from the United States. After completing your education in the U.S., you take the NCLEX-RN exam to obtain your license.
To become a lucrative or highly paid nurse in the United States, you must specialise in a high-demand field such as critical care, anaesthesia, nurse midwifery, oncology, paediatrics, psychiatry, emergency nursing.
To become a lucrative or highly paid nurse in the United States, you must specialise in a high-demand field such as critical care, anaesthesia, nurse midwifery, oncology, paediatrics, psychiatry, emergency nursing.
All specialisations in nursing require you to either obtain a master’s degree, doctoral degree or 1-2 years of certification and training in the speciality of your choice.
The estimated salaries of specialist nurses range from $70,000-$150,000 per annum, depending on the competitiveness of the speciality.
Nursing in Nigeria is regulated by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN), which sets the standards for education, practice, and professional conduct.
Despite the critical role nurses play in the healthcare system, the profession is often plagued by low wages, poor working conditions, and a lack of career advancement opportunities.
These issues contribute to a high turnover rate and the continuous search for better prospects abroad.
In response to the growing trend of nurse migration, the Nigerian government implemented a rule mandating that nurses must obtain at least two years of clinical experience within Nigeria before they are eligible to practice abroad.
This policy aims to ensure that the local healthcare system retains experienced professionals who can provide quality care and contribute to the development of the sector.
This rule has garnered mixed reactions. On the one hand, it helps maintain a stable workforce in the country, ensuring that new graduates gain practical experience and contribute to the local healthcare system before considering opportunities abroad.
On the other hand, it is seen as a hindrance by many aspiring nurses eager to move to countries like the United States, where they can earn significantly higher salaries and enjoy better working conditions.