Getting a Nursing Internship Role in Nigeria in 2026: Essential Guide for BNSc Graduates
By Fellow Nurses Africa Team
Fellow Nurses Africa
Published: January 2026
The mandatory one-year nursing internship (often referred to as nurse internship or housemanship for BNSc graduates) remains a vital requirement for full registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN). This supervised clinical program provides essential hands-on experience in departments such as medical-surgical nursing, pediatrics, obstetrics and gynecology, community health, and mental health.
The Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria announced the approval of a centralized placement system in late 2025, following directives from the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare. This reform aims to enhance transparency, reduce delays, eliminate favoritism, and curb unethical practices like “slot buying” by standardizing deployment across accredited public health facilities. However, as of early 2026, the centralized system has not been fully implemented, with details on the application portal and modalities still pending. In the interim, many hospitals continue with their individual application processes.
👉 Join our Whatsapp channel Here
This guide, compiled by Fellow Nurses Africa, offers practical steps and expert insights to help BNSc graduates secure an internship spot efficiently in the current landscape.
Why the Internship Matters in 2026
This supervised program is mandatory for full NMCN licensure. It satisfies the post-BNSc practical training requirement, facilitates NYSC mobilization (where applicable), and bolsters your CV for permanent employment or advanced studies. Interns receive remuneration under the Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS 07), typically ranging from ₦150,000–₦250,000 monthly (plus allowances), varying by institution and location.
The approved centralized system holds promise for fairer access once operational, though limited slots continue to pose challenges. Fellow Nurses Africa advocates for expanded accredited positions and timely rollout.
Eligibility Requirements for 2026
Core criteria include:
- Bachelor of Nursing Science (BNSc) from an NMCN-approved university.
- Provisional/temporary license from the NMCN (issued after induction).
- No prior full registration needed—fresh graduates are eligible.
- Good character and physical/mental fitness for clinical duties.
- Supporting documents: BNSc certificate/statement of result, WAEC/SSCE, birth certificate/age declaration, passport photographs, application letter, CV, and referees.
Follow NMCN updates (nmcn.gov.ng) for any centralized guidelines once launched.
Key Approved Facilities for Nursing Internship
Only NMCN-accredited hospitals qualify for internships. For the most comprehensive and updated list compiled by Fellow Nurses Africa (as of January 2026), read the full details in our previous post here.
Always verify current accreditation directly with hospitals or NMCN, as status can change. Private hospitals may offer separate intakes with modern facilities but remain competitive.
Step-by-Step Application Process in 2026
- Secure Your Provisional License — Complete induction and obtain temporary registration from NMCN.
- Stay Informed —
- Monitor nmcn.gov.ng for centralized portal announcements.
- Follow Fellow Nurses Africa (fellownurses.com), for alerts.
- Check hospital websites, social media, and platforms like HotNigerianJobs.
- Prepare Materials — Customize your application letter (addressed to the Chief Medical Director), assemble documents (often 10 hard copies or online).
- Apply —
- Await centralized portal launch (expected batch-based).
- Currently, submit to individual hospitals via advertised or rolling intakes.
- Target 5–10 accredited facilities to improve odds.
- Selection — Prepare for aptitude tests, interviews, and verification.
- Onboarding — Complete induction and begin 12-month rotations upon acceptance.
Apply promptly after licensing—delays can extend timelines significantly. Watch for centralized implementation news.
Expert Tips for Success
- Apply Broadly and Quickly — Use current processes while monitoring for centralized changes.
- Engage Communities — Join Fellow Nurses Africa groups, NANNM branches, and LinkedIn for updates and support.
- Avoid Exploitation — Report bribe demands to NMCN; the centralized approval targets such issues—advocate for its activation.
- Build a Strong Profile — Emphasize academics, volunteering, or exposure in applications.
- Plan Finances — Account for relocation and initial costs, despite eventual pay.
- Explore Options — Include state or private hospitals if public delays occur.
Final Thoughts: Advancing Your Nursing Career
The approval of centralized placement represents progress toward equity, though full implementation awaits in 2026. With diligent preparation and credible resources like NMCN and Fellow Nurses Africa, you can navigate the process successfully.
👉 Join our Whatsapp channel Here
Fellow Nurses Africa is the independent voice of African nursing, we educate, inform and support nurses across Africa
