The College of Nursing Sciences, Mental Health Program, Federal Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital, Maiduguri has officially announced the commencement of its admission process for the Post-Basic Mental Health/Psychiatric Nursing Training Programme for the 2026/2027 academic session.

This is an excellent opportunity for professional nurses who are passionate about advancing their careers and specializing in the field of mental health and psychiatric nursing, one of the most vital areas of modern healthcare.

Programme Overview

The Post-Basic Mental Health/Psychiatric Nursing Training Programme is designed to equip qualified nurses with advanced knowledge and clinical skills required to care for individuals, families, and communities experiencing mental health challenges.

The programme runs for a period of 18 calendar months and combines both theoretical coursework and practical hospital-based training, ensuring that students gain hands-on experience while learning.

Graduates of this programme will be recognized as specialists in Mental Health/Psychiatric Nursing and will be well-prepared to serve in hospitals, rehabilitation centres, community health institutions, schools, NGOs, and other healthcare environments where mental health expertise is needed.

Admission Requirements

To be eligible for admission, applicants must meet the following requirements:

1. Professional Qualification: Must be a nurse registered with the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN).

2. Work Experience: Must have at least two (2) years post-qualification working experience.

3. Practicing Licence: Must possess a current practicing licence issued by the NMCN.

4. Academic Requirement: Must have five (5) O’Level credits in science subjects, including English Language and Mathematics, obtained at not more than two sittings.

Duration of the Course

📌 The programme spans a total of 18 calendar months, after which successful candidates will be awarded the Post-Basic Certificate in Mental Health/Psychiatric Nursing.

Method of Application

Interested applicants are to follow the steps below:

• Obtain an application form directly from the College of Nursing Sciences, Federal Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital, Maiduguri.

• The form is available upon the payment of a non-refundable fee of ₦10,000 (Ten Thousand Naira only) at the Accounts Department of the Hospital.

• Completed application forms must be accompanied by photocopies of all relevant credentials (academic certificates, practising licence, and other required documents).

• All completed forms should be returned to the College of Nursing Sciences before the application deadline.

Important Dates

• Sale of Application Forms: Already in progress (commenced on 22nd September, 2025).

• Closing Date for Application: 31st March, 2026.

• Entrance Examination & Interview: The date will be communicated to applicants in due course.

Candidates are strongly advised to submit their applications well before the closing date to avoid last-minute challenges.

Why Specialize in Mental Health Nursing?

The importance of mental health care in Nigeria and globally cannot be overemphasized. With the rising awareness of psychological well-being and the increasing need for professional care for individuals with mental health conditions, trained psychiatric nurses are in high demand.

By enrolling in this programme, nurses will:

• Gain specialized clinical expertise in mental health care.

• Enhance their career prospects in both public and private healthcare sectors.

• Become advocates for mental health, contributing to reducing stigma associated with psychiatric conditions.

• Open doors to opportunities for further academic and professional advancement, both locally and internationally.

Contact Information

For further inquiries and clarifications, prospective applicants may reach out to the following contacts:

• The Provost, College of Nursing Sciences, Mental Health Program, Federal Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital, Maiduguri – 📞 08037742761

• Mr. Abdullahi Bukar, Admission Officer, College of Nursing Sciences – 📞 08022029595

Closing Remark

The management of the College of Nursing Sciences, Mental Health Program, Maiduguri encourages all eligible and interested nurses to take advantage of this opportunity to specialize in one of the most impactful areas of nursing practice.

With mental health gaining increasing attention across the globe, there has never been a better time to equip oneself with the skills to make a difference. This programme provides the perfect platform for nurses who are committed to advancing their professional journey while playing a key role in transforming mental health care delivery in Nigeria.

📢 Summary at a Glance:

• Programme: Post-Basic Mental Health/Psychiatric Nursing

• Duration: 18 months

• Application Fee: ₦10,000

• Deadline: 31st March, 2026

• Venue for Forms: College of Nursing Sciences, Federal Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital, Maiduguri

• Contact Numbers: 08037742761, 08022029595

✨ Nurses are called not just to care for the body, but also for the mind. This admission window is your chance to step into that calling.