Complete Guide to NMCN Basic Indexing for Nursing Students in Nigeria (2025)

Complete Guide to NMCN Basic Indexing for Nursing Students in Nigeria (2025)

Written by Nr. Madu Ezra Onyedikachi (RN, RM, RPHN, BNSc)

Becoming a licensed nurse in Nigeria is a noble journey, one that embodies a commitment to transforming lives through compassionate healthcare. A critical step in this path is completing the Basic Indexing process with the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN). For nursing students across Nigeria, this guide—crafted with elegance and clarity for the Fellow Nurses Africa community—offers a straightforward, step-by-step roadmap to navigate the 2025 indexing process using the official NMCN portal (https://portal20.nmcn.gov.ng/). Our goal is to empower you with the knowledge and confidence to complete this process smoothly, bringing you closer to your dream of serving as a professional nurse.

Phase 1: Are You Eligible for Basic Indexing?

Before diving in, confirm that you meet one of these eligibility criteria:

• New Nursing Students: Admitted into Colleges of Nursing in October or November 2024.
• ND-HND Nursing Students: Completed the 2nd Semester of ND-1.
• University Nursing Students: Enrolled in 300 Level, or 400 Level if you haven’t been indexed previously due to institutional delays.

Tip: Double-check your eligibility early to kickstart your indexing journey without delays.

Phase 2: Setting Up Your NMCN Portal Account

1. Visit the NMCN Portal: Head to https://portal20.nmcn.gov.ng/.
2. Choose Your Applicant Type:
   • Select “Fresh Applicant” if you’re new to the portal.
   • Choose “Returning Applicant” if you already have an RN or Index number.
3. Select Your Training Institution:
   • Pick the state where your training institution is located in Nigeria.
   • Choose your specific Institution of Training from the list.
4. Register Your Account:
   • Fill in your personal details carefully, ensuring they match your official credentials.
   • Submit the form to receive a confirmation code via email.
5. Activate Your Account:
   • Enter the confirmation code to complete registration.
   • Log in using the email and password you provided.
6. Create Your Profile:
   • Input your basic information, making sure it aligns with your credentials.
   • Upload these documents (each file should be around 200KB):
     • Passport photo: Taken in your nursing uniform with a white background.
     • O’Level results: WAEC or NECO (use a new result checker, as your school clearance officer will verify it online).
     • Birth certificate or declaration of age.
     • Secondary school testimonial.
     • For married women: Marriage certificate and change of name document (if applicable).
   • Save and submit your profile to finalize this step.

Tip: Pay close attention to detail when setting up your profile to avoid hiccups later in the process.

Phase 3: Applying for Basic Indexing

1. Go to the Indexing Section:
   • Log in to https://portal20.nmcn.gov.ng/ and click the “Indexing” tab.
   • Select “Apply for Basic Indexing”.
2. Fill Out the Application:
   • Enter all required details, ensuring they match your credentials exactly.
   • Submit your application.
3. Confirm Your Submission:
   • A confirmation message will pop up. Click “Yes” to proceed.
   • Write down the Application Number displayed—it’s important!
4. Check Your Status:
   • Visit your profile page to confirm your application was submitted successfully.

Tip: Keep your application number safe; it’s your key to tracking your indexing progress.

Phase 4: Getting Cleared by Your School

This phase is handled by your training institution:

1. Meet Your School Clearance Officer:
   • Bring your application details to your officer.
2. Document Verification:
   • The officer will review your application and uploaded documents.
   • Once verified, they’ll clear your application on the NMCN portal, allowing you to move to the payment stage.

Tip: Stay in touch with your clearance officer to ensure your documents meet NMCN’s standards.

Phase 5: Making Your Payment

1. Pay the Indexing Fee:
   • Pay ₦8,300 (plus bank charges) before the deadline of August 22, 2025.
2. Submit Proof of Payment:
   • Hand over the payment printout to your training institution.
3. Your School’s Next Steps:
   • Your institution will prepare a covering letter that includes:
     • Candidate names.
     • Application numbers.
     • REMITA RRR numbers.
   • This letter will be sent to the NMCN headquarters in Abuja for processing.

Tip: Don’t miss the payment deadline—late payments may incur extra fees or delay your application.

Key Tips for a Smooth Indexing Process

• Act Promptly: Late payments could lead to penalties or unprocessed applications.
• Get Support: Work closely with your school or focal persons to ensure your application is accurate.
• Choose Wisely: If you need help with registration, use a trusted cyber café to avoid errors.
• Contact NMCN for Help:
  • For questions or issues, reach out via email:
    • indexing@nmcn.gov.ng
    • saweibo@nmcn.gov.ng
    • maliyu@nmcn.gov.ng

Tip: Address any concerns quickly by contacting NMCN to keep your registration on track.

Why Basic Indexing Matters

Basic Indexing with the NMCN is more than a requirement—it’s your gateway to becoming a licensed nurse in Nigeria. This process ensures you’re recognized by the council, setting you up for a rewarding career dedicated to improving lives. By following this guide and using https://portal20.nmcn.gov.ng/, you’ll navigate indexing with ease and confidence.

Join the Largest African Nursing Community

You don’t have to walk this path alone. Connect with thousands of nursing students and professionals across Africa for support, mentorship, and networking. Join the vibrant Fellow Nurses Africa WhatsApp Community today to share your journey, gain valuable insights, and grow alongside passionate peers dedicated to advancing healthcare.

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