Exposing Corruption in Nigerian Nursing Internships: Bribery, Sex-for-Slots Scandal, and the Fight for Meritocracy
Fellow Nurses Africa News || Lagos, Nigeria || June 23, 2025
A shocking revelation has rocked the Nigerian healthcare sector, exposing a deep-seated corruption crisis that is robbing talented nursing graduates of their rightful opportunities. On June 21, 2025, a viral X post by a user name Alex Onyia @winexviv alleged that internship slots in prestigious teaching hospitals are being sold for exorbitant sums, sidelining even first-class graduates who cannot afford the bribes.
As a leading voice for nurses across Africa, Fellow Nurses Africa delves into this scandal, uncovering a troubling trend that includes not only financial extortion but also disturbing reports of nurses being pressured to offer their bodies in exchange for placements.
The Alarming Price of Opportunity
The post detailed a staggering list of rates demanded by various institutions:
- University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital (UNTH): N500,000
- University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH): N250,000
- Uncial Teaching Hospital: N300,000–N350,000 (specifically for nurses)
- DUFUTH Ebonyi: N400,000
- FMC Umuahia: N450,000
- LUTH: N500,000
- University College Hospital Ibadan (UCH): N500,000
Replies to the post painted an even bleaker picture. One nurse reported that UBTH demands between N800,000 and N1 million for nursing internships, while another claimed Abuja’s rate has soared to N750,000, with additional barriers like “having the right connections.” A user from FMC Owerri confirmed a N300,000 fee, calling the internship system a “corruption avenue.” Even more harrowing are reports from our previous investigation Discover Our In-Depth Analysis, which revealed that some desperate candidates are coerced into offering sexual favors to secure a slot—a practice that dehumanizes and exploits young professionals.
A System That Betrays Merit
This corruption strikes at the heart of meritocracy, leaving many brilliant nursing graduates, including those with first-class degrees, jobless. One X user shared their struggle, refusing to pay bribes and traveling across Nigeria for screening exams, only to secure a lower-paying internship with Reals Pharma. Another lamented the five-year nursing degree, packed with practicals, only to face another year of internship—unlike the three-year programs in Ghana and other countries—while being extorted.
The ripple effect is devastating. Talented nurses are forced to stay home, healthcare delivery suffers, and the profession’s future dims. As one respondent noted, “Our bright stars are suffering,” a sentiment echoed by thousands of likes and reposts on the original thread.
The Broader Context
This scandal aligns with broader findings from health sector studies, which identify employment-related corruption as a top priority issue in Nigeria. Limited internship slots, geographic inequalities, and delays in placement exacerbate the problem, pushing graduates toward unethical means to survive. The pressure is intensified by reports of similar bribery in residency programs and even NYSC postings, creating a cycle of corruption that threatens the entire healthcare ecosystem.
A Call to Action for Nurses
Fellow Nurses Africa stands with affected nurses and calls for urgent reform. If you’re a nurse seeking internship opportunities or support, join the largest African nursing community today by connecting with us on WhatsApp Join the Fellow Nurses Africa Network. Together, we can amplify your voice, share resources, and advocate for a fair system.
Looking Ahead
The outrage on X, with over 358,000 views and growing, signals a demand for change. Stakeholders, including the Minister of Health, must act swiftly to investigate these allegations, prosecute offenders, and restore merit-based selection. For nurses, the fight is not just for placements but for the dignity and integrity of a noble profession.
As we continue to uncover these issues, Fellow Nurses Africa remains committed to educating, empowering, and protecting our nursing community. Stay informed, stay united, and let’s rebuild a healthcare system we can all be proud of.
