Midwifery Schools in Nigeria: Programs & Admissions

Midwifery Schools in Nigeria: Top Programs, Admission Requirements & Career Guide

Introduction

Midwifery schools in Nigeria play a vital role in the nation's healthcare system. With a population exceeding 220 million people and a birth rate that remains among the highest in Africa, the demand for trained, competent midwives has never been greater. Every year, millions of Nigerian women rely on skilled midwives for safe pregnancies, deliveries, and postnatal care. Yet the country continues to face a critical shortage of qualified midwifery professionals, particularly in rural and underserved communities.

For young Nigerians passionate about healthcare, pursuing midwifery training offers a meaningful, in-demand career with real impact. Whether you are a secondary school leaver exploring your options, a nursing professional looking to specialise, or a parent guiding your child through career decisions, understanding the landscape of schools of midwifery in Nigeria is essential.

Nigeria's midwifery education system is regulated by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN), which accredits institutions, sets curriculum standards, and conducts the professional licensing examinations that all graduates must pass. The country has dozens of accredited nursing and midwifery schools spread across its six geopolitical zones, offering programs that range from basic midwifery certificates to advanced diplomas and degree-level qualifications.

This guide covers everything you need to know: the structure of midwifery education in Nigeria, a region-by-region listing of accredited schools, admission requirements, curriculum overview, NMCN registration, career opportunities, salary expectations, challenges facing the profession, and a step-by-step guide to applying. If you are also interested in the broader context of healthcare and professional education in the country, our guide to the education system in Nigeria provides valuable background.

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Overview of Midwifery Education in Nigeria

What Is Midwifery?

Midwifery is the healthcare profession focused on the care of women during pregnancy, labour, childbirth, and the postpartum period, as well as the care of newborn infants. Midwives are trained to manage normal pregnancies and deliveries independently, identify complications early, provide emergency interventions when necessary, and refer complex cases to obstetricians and other specialists.

In Nigeria, midwifery is recognised as both a standalone profession and a specialisation within nursing. The profession is governed by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN), which was established under Decree No. 89 of 1979 (now Cap N143, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004). The NMCN sets educational standards, accredits training institutions, and conducts licensing examinations.

Types of Midwifery Programs in Nigeria

There are several pathways to becoming a qualified midwife in Nigeria:

• Basic Midwifery Program -- A direct-entry program for candidates who meet the minimum educational requirements. Duration is typically 3 years, leading to a Midwifery Certificate.
• Post-Basic Midwifery Program -- Designed for registered nurses who wish to add midwifery to their qualifications. Duration is typically 18 months.
• Bachelor of Nursing Science (BNSc) -- A 5-year university degree program that combines nursing and midwifery education, offered at universities with accredited nursing departments.
• Double Qualification (Nursing and Midwifery) -- Some schools of nursing and midwifery offer combined programs that produce graduates qualified in both nursing and midwifery.

The Role of the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN)

The NMCN is the regulatory body responsible for:

• Accrediting all nursing and midwifery training institutions in Nigeria
• Setting and reviewing the curriculum and minimum standards for midwifery education
• Conducting the professional qualifying examinations for midwifery graduates
• Registering and licensing qualified midwives to practice in Nigeria
• Enforcing professional ethics and disciplinary standards
• Maintaining the register of all licensed nurses and midwives in the country

No midwifery qualification obtained from an unaccredited institution is recognised in Nigeria. Prospective students must verify that their chosen school holds current NMCN accreditation before enrolling.

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Accredited Midwifery Schools in Nigeria by Region

Nigeria has schools of midwifery in Nigeria distributed across all six geopolitical zones. Below is a representative listing of accredited institutions organised by region. This list includes well-established schools with strong reputations, though it is not exhaustive. Always confirm current accreditation status with the NMCN before applying.

South-West Nigeria

The South-West zone, comprising Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Ondo, and Ekiti States, has some of the oldest and most established midwifery training institutions in the country.

South-East Nigeria

The South-East zone (Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu, and Imo States) has a strong tradition of nursing and midwifery education.

South-South Nigeria

The South-South zone (Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Edo, and Rivers States) hosts several important midwifery training centres.

North-Central Nigeria

The North-Central zone (Benue, Kogi, Kwara, Nasarawa, Niger, Plateau States, and the FCT) serves as a bridge between the north and south, with several strong institutions.

North-West Nigeria

The North-West zone (Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Kebbi, Jigawa, Sokoto, and Zamfara States) has been a focus of government efforts to expand midwifery training, given the region's high maternal mortality rates.

North-East Nigeria

The North-East zone (Adamawa, Bauchi, Borno, Gombe, Taraba, and Yobe States) faces unique challenges including insecurity, but continues to train midwives through resilient institutions.

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Admission Requirements for Midwifery Schools in Nigeria

Admission into midwifery schools in Nigeria is competitive, and requirements vary depending on whether you are applying for a basic or post-basic program.

Basic Midwifery Program Requirements

The basic midwifery program is open to candidates who hold a secondary school certificate. The typical requirements include:

1. WAEC/NECO/GCE O-Level Results -- A minimum of five credits in relevant subjects obtained in not more than two sittings. Required subjects typically include:

   • English Language (credit)
   • Mathematics (credit)
   • Biology (credit)
   • Chemistry (credit)
   • Physics or any other science subject (credit)

2. Age Requirement -- Candidates must usually be at least 17 years old at the time of admission.

3. JAMB (UTME) -- Some institutions, particularly those affiliated with universities, require candidates to have taken the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination and scored a minimum cut-off mark.

4. Entrance Examination -- Most schools conduct their own entrance examinations covering English Language, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and sometimes Physics or General Knowledge.

5. Interview/Screening -- Shortlisted candidates are typically invited for an oral interview and medical fitness screening.

6. Medical Fitness -- Candidates must be physically and mentally fit, as certified by a medical examination.

7. Character References -- Two or three references, often including one from a religious leader or community head.

Post-Basic Midwifery Program Requirements

The post-basic program is designed for already-qualified registered nurses who wish to obtain a midwifery qualification. Requirements typically include:

1. Current Registration -- A valid registration and licence with the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) as a Registered Nurse (RN).

2. Nursing Qualification -- A Registered Nursing Certificate from an NMCN-accredited school of nursing.

3. O-Level Results -- Five credits including English Language, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics, obtained in not more than two sittings.

4. Work Experience -- A minimum of one year of post-qualification clinical nursing experience, though some institutions require two years.

5. Employer Recommendation -- A letter of recommendation from the candidate's current employer or Director of Nursing Services.

6. Entrance Examination -- Some schools require registered nurses to sit an aptitude or screening examination.

Bachelor of Nursing Science (BNSc) Requirements

For the university degree pathway that combines nursing and midwifery:

1. JAMB (UTME) -- Candidates must register for and pass the JAMB examination with a competitive score. Subject combination is typically English Language, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.

2. O-Level Results -- Five credits at one sitting or six credits at two sittings, including English, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.

3. Post-UTME Screening -- Most universities conduct their own post-UTME tests and interviews.

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Curriculum and Training Overview

What You Will Study

The curriculum for midwifery training Nigeria programs is standardised by the NMCN and covers both theoretical knowledge and extensive clinical practice. Core subject areas include:

Foundational Sciences:

• Human Anatomy and Physiology
• Microbiology and Parasitology
• Pharmacology and Therapeutics
• Nutrition and Dietetics
• Biochemistry

Core Midwifery Subjects:

• Normal Pregnancy (Antenatal Care)
• Normal Labour and Delivery
• Abnormal Pregnancy and Complications
• High-Risk Obstetrics
• Postnatal Care and Puerperium
• Neonatal Care and Resuscitation
• Family Planning and Reproductive Health
• Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission (PMTCT) of HIV
• Emergency Obstetric and Newborn Care (EmONC)

Professional and Behavioural Sciences:

• Nursing/Midwifery Ethics and Jurisprudence
• Health Education and Communication
• Community Health and Primary Healthcare
• Research Methodology
• Health Management and Administration
• Psychology and Sociology

Clinical Training

Clinical training is a central component of midwifery education. Students are required to complete a significant number of supervised clinical hours, including:

• Antenatal clinic rotations -- Assessing pregnant women, conducting physical examinations, and managing routine care
• Labour ward rotations -- Assisting with and conducting normal deliveries under supervision
• Postnatal ward rotations -- Caring for mothers and newborns after delivery
• Neonatal unit rotations -- Managing common neonatal conditions
• Community midwifery postings -- Providing care in community health centres, rural clinics, and outreach programs
• Operating theatre experience -- Assisting with caesarean sections and other obstetric procedures

By the end of their training, basic midwifery students must have conducted a minimum number of supervised deliveries (typically 20-40 deliveries, depending on the institution and NMCN requirements) and demonstrated competence in essential midwifery skills.

Program Duration

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NMCN Registration and Licensing

The Qualifying Examination

After completing their training, graduates of accredited midwifery schools in Nigeria must sit and pass the NMCN Professional Qualifying Examination. This examination tests both theoretical knowledge and practical clinical skills. It consists of:

• Written papers covering all core midwifery subjects
• Practical/clinical assessment where candidates demonstrate essential midwifery competencies on real or simulated patients
• Oral examination in some cases

The pass rate varies by year and institution, but students from well-established schools with strong clinical training programs generally perform better.

Registration Process

Upon passing the NMCN qualifying examination, graduates must complete the registration process:

1. Apply for registration with the NMCN, submitting all required documents (certificates, examination results, passport photographs, identification).
2. Pay the registration fee as prescribed by the NMCN.
3. Receive your certificate and licence -- The NMCN issues a Registered Midwife (RM) certificate and a practising licence.
4. Annual licence renewal -- Midwives must renew their practising licences annually and meet continuing professional development (CPD) requirements.

Importance of NMCN Registration

Practising midwifery without a valid NMCN licence is illegal in Nigeria. Employers, including government hospitals, private clinics, and NGOs, require proof of current NMCN registration before hiring. The licence also facilitates international recognition, as Nigerian midwifery qualifications are often accepted in other countries, particularly in the Commonwealth and the Middle East, subject to local verification processes.

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Best Midwifery Schools in Nigeria: How to Choose

Selecting the right school is one of the most important decisions you will make. Here are the key factors to consider when evaluating the best midwifery schools Nigeria has to offer:

Accreditation Status

Always verify that the school holds current, full accreditation from the NMCN. Schools with partial or provisional accreditation may have their status revoked, which could jeopardise your qualification. Check the NMCN website or contact their office directly for the latest accreditation list.

NMCN Examination Pass Rate

Schools with consistently high pass rates on the NMCN qualifying examination are generally better choices. Ask the school for their recent pass rate data, or speak with current students and alumni.

Clinical Training Facilities

The quality of clinical training depends on the hospital or healthcare facility where you will do your rotations. Schools attached to teaching hospitals or federal medical centres typically offer superior clinical exposure, with higher patient volumes and more diverse clinical cases.

Faculty Qualifications

Look for schools with experienced, well-qualified lecturers and clinical instructors. The student-to-instructor ratio matters, especially during clinical rotations where close supervision is essential.

Infrastructure and Resources

Consider the availability of classrooms, simulation laboratories, libraries, hostel accommodation, and study materials. Schools with dedicated midwifery simulation labs provide students with opportunities to practise skills before working with real patients.

Location and Accessibility

Proximity to your home, the cost of living in the area, and transportation options all affect your experience. However, do not choose a school solely based on convenience if a better school is available within reasonable reach.

Alumni Network and Employment Record

Schools with strong alumni networks and good relationships with employers can provide valuable career support after graduation. Ask about the school's graduate employment rate and where their alumni typically work.

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Career Prospects for Midwives in Nigeria

Graduating from an accredited midwifery school and obtaining NMCN registration opens up a wide range of career opportunities. The demand for qualified midwives in Nigeria remains strong across both the public and private sectors.

Employment Sectors

• Government Hospitals and Health Centres -- Federal, state, and local government healthcare facilities are the largest employers of midwives in Nigeria. Positions range from staff midwife to senior nursing/midwifery officer.
• Private Hospitals and Clinics -- Nigeria's growing private healthcare sector employs large numbers of midwives, particularly in urban areas.
• Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) -- PHCs in rural and semi-urban areas are critical points of care for pregnant women and are staffed by midwives.
• Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) -- International and local NGOs working in maternal and child health, reproductive health, and HIV/AIDS employ midwives in programme delivery, community outreach, and training roles.
• Faith-Based Health Organisations -- Mission hospitals and clinics across Nigeria employ midwives and often provide housing and other benefits.
• Military and Paramilitary Services -- The Nigerian Army, Navy, Air Force, Police, and other paramilitary organisations employ midwives in their medical facilities.
• Midwifery Education -- Experienced midwives with additional qualifications can become lecturers and clinical instructors at schools of midwifery.
• International Opportunities -- Nigerian midwives work in countries across Africa, the Middle East (particularly Saudi Arabia and the UAE), the United Kingdom, Canada, and other nations. International employers often actively recruit Nigerian-trained midwives.

Career Progression

A typical career progression for a midwife in Nigeria follows this trajectory:

1. Staff Midwife -- Entry-level position after registration
2. Senior Staff Midwife -- After several years of experience
3. Nursing/Midwifery Officer -- Leadership role in a clinical unit
4. Senior Nursing/Midwifery Officer -- Supervisory responsibilities
5. Principal Nursing/Midwifery Officer -- Departmental management
6. Assistant Director of Nursing/Midwifery Services -- Administrative leadership
7. Director of Nursing/Midwifery Services -- Top-level management position

Midwives can also specialise further through advanced training in areas such as neonatal intensive care, reproductive health, public health, or midwifery education.

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Salary Expectations for Midwives in Nigeria

Midwifery salaries in Nigeria vary depending on the employer, location, experience level, and additional qualifications. Here is a general overview:

Important notes on salaries:

• Public sector salaries are based on the Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS), which standardises pay grades across federal health institutions. State-level salaries may differ.
• Private sector salaries vary widely depending on the facility. High-end private hospitals in Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt typically pay more than smaller clinics.
• Additional allowances (housing, transport, hazard, shift) can significantly increase total compensation in the public sector.
• International positions, particularly in the Gulf States and the UK, offer substantially higher salaries, often ranging from N500,000 to over N2,000,000 monthly equivalent.

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Challenges Facing Midwifery Education in Nigeria

Despite the critical importance of midwifery, the profession faces several significant challenges in Nigeria:

Shortage of Training Institutions

The number of accredited nursing and midwifery schools in Nigeria is insufficient to meet the country's needs. Many states have only one or two accredited schools, leading to intense competition for limited places and leaving large populations underserved.

Inadequate Funding

Many midwifery schools, particularly those run by state governments, suffer from chronic underfunding. This affects infrastructure, equipment, teaching materials, faculty recruitment, and clinical training quality.

Insufficient Clinical Training Opportunities

High student-to-patient ratios and limited access to well-equipped clinical facilities mean that some students graduate without adequate hands-on experience. This is particularly problematic in the North-East and North-West zones, where insecurity has disrupted healthcare services.

Brain Drain

Nigeria loses a significant number of trained midwives to international migration each year. Better salaries, working conditions, and career prospects abroad make retention difficult, particularly for highly skilled professionals. This exodus places additional strain on the already-stretched domestic healthcare system.

Regional Disparities

Access to midwifery education varies dramatically across Nigeria. The South-West and South-East zones have a higher concentration of accredited schools and training hospitals, while parts of the North-West and North-East have far fewer. This mirrors broader disparities in education access documented in our guide to states with the best educational system in Nigeria.

Gender and Cultural Barriers

In some communities, particularly in northern Nigeria, cultural factors discourage women from pursuing extended education or professional careers. Male midwives are accepted in some facilities but remain uncommon, and cultural norms can also affect patient acceptance of male birth attendants.

Outdated Curricula and Teaching Methods

While the NMCN has made efforts to update the curriculum, some schools still rely on outdated teaching methods, limited simulation technology, and insufficient exposure to evidence-based midwifery practices. Integration of modern tools such as school management systems in training institutions remains limited.

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How to Apply to Midwifery Schools in Nigeria

Step-by-Step Application Guide

Follow these steps to apply to accredited midwifery schools in Nigeria:

Step 1: Research and Shortlist Schools Identify accredited schools in your preferred region. Verify their NMCN accreditation status. Compare their facilities, pass rates, fees, and reputation.

Step 2: Check Admission Requirements Visit the school's website or contact their admissions office to confirm specific requirements, deadlines, and application procedures. Requirements may differ between basic and post-basic programs.

Step 3: Obtain Your O-Level Results Ensure you have your WAEC, NECO, or GCE results with the required credits. If you are missing a required subject, you may need to re-sit the examination.

Step 4: Register for JAMB (If Required) If the school requires JAMB scores, register for the UTME on the JAMB website. Select the appropriate subject combination (English, Biology, Chemistry, Physics) and choose your preferred institution.

Step 5: Purchase and Complete the Application Form Application forms are typically sold at the school's admissions office or online through the school's website. Complete the form accurately and attach all required documents, including:

• O-Level result(s)
• JAMB result slip (if applicable)
• Birth certificate or age declaration
• Local government identification letter
• Passport photographs
• For post-basic applicants: NMCN registration certificate, nursing qualification, and employer recommendation letter

Step 6: Sit the Entrance Examination Prepare thoroughly for the school's entrance examination. Focus on Biology, Chemistry, English Language, and Mathematics. Past questions may be available from the school or from senior students.

Step 7: Attend the Interview If shortlisted, attend the interview prepared to discuss your motivation for choosing midwifery, your understanding of the profession, and your commitment to completing the program.

Step 8: Accept Your Offer and Complete Registration If offered admission, pay the required fees, complete your medical examination, and submit all original documents by the specified deadline.

Application Fees and Tuition

Application fees for midwifery schools in Nigeria typically range from N5,000 to N15,000. Tuition fees vary significantly:

Additional costs include hostel accommodation, uniforms, textbooks, clinical equipment (stethoscope, blood pressure apparatus, etc.), and examination fees.

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The Midwifery Service Scheme (MSS)

The Midwifery Service Scheme (MSS) is a Federal Government initiative launched in 2009 to deploy trained midwives to underserved rural communities across Nigeria. The program addresses the shortage of skilled birth attendants in areas with the highest maternal mortality rates.

How the MSS Works

• Newly qualified and retired midwives volunteer or are recruited to serve in primary healthcare centres in rural and hard-to-reach areas.
• Participants receive a monthly stipend, accommodation support, and other incentives.
• The scheme is coordinated by the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) in partnership with state governments, the NMCN, and development partners including the WHO and UNICEF.
• Many young midwives use the MSS as a pathway to gain clinical experience and contribute to community health while seeking permanent employment.

Impact of the MSS

Since its inception, the MSS has deployed thousands of midwives to underserved communities across Nigeria. Evaluations have shown significant improvements in facility-based deliveries, antenatal care attendance, and reduction in maternal and neonatal deaths in areas where MSS midwives are posted. The scheme has also helped to bridge the urban-rural gap in midwifery staffing and has given newly graduated midwives valuable clinical experience.

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Continuing Professional Development for Midwives

The NMCN requires all registered midwives to participate in Mandatory Continuing Professional Development (MCPD) to maintain their licences. This includes:

• Attending approved workshops, seminars, and conferences
• Completing online and offline training courses
• Participating in clinical skills updates and refresher training
• Accumulating a minimum number of CPD credit points within each renewal period

Professional organisations such as the National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives (NANNM) and the Society of Midwives of Nigeria (SON) organise regular CPD events and advocate for the professional interests of midwives nationwide.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to become a midwife in Nigeria?

The basic midwifery program takes 3 years. If you are already a registered nurse, the post-basic midwifery program takes 18 months. The university route through a Bachelor of Nursing Science (BNSc) degree takes 5 years and covers both nursing and midwifery.

Can males study midwifery in Nigeria?

Yes. Midwifery training in Nigeria is open to both male and female candidates. While the profession has historically been female-dominated, male midwives are increasingly accepted in clinical settings. Some cultural and patient-preference considerations may apply in certain regions.

What is the difference between a midwife and a nurse in Nigeria?

A nurse is trained to provide general healthcare across a wide range of conditions and patient groups. A midwife is specifically trained in the care of women during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period, as well as newborn care. In Nigeria, many professionals hold both qualifications (Registered Nurse and Registered Midwife), which expands their career options.

Is midwifery a good career in Nigeria?

Yes. Midwifery is a respected and in-demand profession in Nigeria. The country's high birth rate, ongoing maternal health challenges, and shortage of skilled birth attendants ensure strong demand for qualified midwives. Career opportunities exist in government hospitals, private clinics, NGOs, and internationally. Salaries in the public sector follow the CONHESS pay structure, with additional allowances.

How much does it cost to study midwifery in Nigeria?

Costs vary by institution. State government schools charge approximately N50,000 to N150,000 per year in tuition, while federal teaching hospital schools charge N80,000 to N200,000. University BNSc programs can cost N100,000 to N500,000 or more annually. Additional expenses include accommodation, uniforms, textbooks, and clinical equipment.

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Conclusion

Midwifery schools in Nigeria offer a pathway to one of the most meaningful and impactful careers in healthcare. Despite the challenges of underfunding, brain drain, and regional disparities, the profession continues to attract dedicated individuals who are passionate about maternal and child health. The Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria provides the regulatory framework that ensures training standards remain high, while government initiatives like the Midwifery Service Scheme work to address staffing shortages in underserved communities.

If you are considering a career in midwifery, take the time to research accredited schools in your region, understand the admission requirements, prepare thoroughly for entrance examinations, and commit fully to your training. The skills you gain will not only transform your career but will directly save the lives of mothers and babies across Nigeria.

For more resources on navigating Nigeria's educational landscape, explore our guides on the education system in Nigeria and states with the best educational system. If you are an educator or administrator at a midwifery school looking to streamline student management, attendance tracking, and record-keeping, SchoolHub provides modern tools designed specifically for Nigerian educational institutions.

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Last Updated: May 2026

Written by the SchoolHub Team