Support Equal Access to Global Nursing Opportunities

Nigeria is home to over 180,000 registered nurses, yet not a single NCLEX (National Council Licensure Examination) testing center exists within the country. This critical licensing exam is a requirement for practicing as a registered nurse in countries like the United States, Canada and Australia. Currently, the only NCLEX testing centers available in Africa are located in Kenya and South Africa destinations that require costly travel and visa processes, creating an unnecessary barrier for many qualified Nigerian nurses.

Nigerian nurses are among the most hardworking and competent professionals in the world. Lack of local access to the NCLEX limits their opportunities and hinders our ability to contribute to the global healthcare system.

Despite these challenges, Nigerian nurses have consistently demonstrated excellence in international healthcare settings. The World Health Organization acknowledges that sub-Saharan Africa, including Nigeria, is critical to solving the global nursing shortage, which is estimated to reach 13 million nurses by 2030.

What makes this issue even more pressing is that Pearson VUE, the official testing organization for the NCLEX, already operates in Nigeria and successfully administers several other professional exams, including those for IT, accounting, and medical certifications. There is no technical or infrastructural barrier to offering the NCLEX exam in Nigeria only the need for approval and action.

Opening an NCLEX testing center in Nigeria would be a game changer. We have the infrastructure, we have the talent what we need now is access.
It is not just about testing; it's about equity, access, and opportunity for thousands of skilled professionals.

We, the undersigned, urge the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) and Pearson VUE to establish an official NCLEX testing center in Nigeria. This will:

• Provide fair and affordable access to licensure opportunities for Nigerian nurses.
• Strengthen the global nursing workforce.
• Enhance Nigeria’s contributions to international healthcare systems.
• Uplift the healthcare profession across Africa.

Please sign and share this petition. Together, we can ensure that Nigerian nurses have the opportunity to thrive and contribute on the global stage.

By Chizoba Odanwu Okwor Esq.