The Akwa Ibom State College of Nursing Sciences (AKSCONS), Ikot Ekpene, has officially heralded the commencement of the registration process for its Post Basic Psychiatric Nursing Programme for the 2026 academic session. In a formal communiqué released by the Registrar, Mr. Philip I. Eduok, the institution has opened its doors to qualified nursing professionals seeking to specialize in the critical field of mental health.

This announcement is a significant milestone for the healthcare landscape in Akwa Ibom State and Nigeria at large. Psychiatric nursing is an essential pillar of the medical field, addressing the complexities of mental health, behavioral disorders, and psychological rehabilitation. By offering this specialized training, AKSCONS continues to fulfill its mandate of producing high-caliber nursing specialists capable of meeting the evolving needs of modern medicine.

Registration Timeline and Operational Guidelines

To ensure a seamless and organized registration process, the College has outlined a strict timeline. Prospective candidates are encouraged to be mindful of these dates to avoid the last-minute rush that often characterizes academic admissions.

• Commencement Date: Monday, 9th February 2026

• Closing Date: Friday, 20th March 2026

• Registration Hours: 10:00 am to 3:00 pm daily

• Venue: College Premises, Ikot Ekpene

The registration exercise is conducted physically at the college site, allowing for the immediate verification of credentials and professional status. It is important to note that the registration office operates exclusively from Monday to Friday, and remains closed on weekends and public holidays. Candidates traveling from outside Ikot Ekpene are advised to plan their arrival within the stipulated 10:00 am to 3:00 pm window to ensure they are attended to by the administrative staff.

Eligibility and Mandatory Documentation

The Post Basic Psychiatric Nursing Programme is a specialized track designed for individuals who have already established a foundation in general nursing. Consequently, the entry requirements are rigorous, combining both professional certification and foundational academic excellence.

Interested candidates are required to present two photocopies of the following documents for vetting:

1. Professional Qualification

• Registered Nurse (RN) Certificate: Applicants must be recognized by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN). This certificate serves as the primary evidence of the candidate’s professional standing and eligibility for post-basic specialization.

2. Educational Credentials (O’Level)

Candidates must demonstrate a strong background in the sciences. The College requires at least five (5) credit passes in the following subjects:

• English Language

• Mathematics

• Physics

• Chemistry

• Biology

These credits must be obtained from recognized examination bodies such as WASC, SSCE, GCE, NECO, or NABTEB. The institution allows for the combination of results, provided the five credits are secured in not more than two sittings.

3. Statutory and Identification Documents

• FSLC: First School Leaving Certificate.

• Testimonial: An official testimonial from the last professional school attended, testifying to the candidate’s character and academic history.

• Birth Certificate/Age Declaration: Official proof of age.

• Certificate of Origin: To verify the candidate’s local government and state of origin.

• Change of Name: Legal documentation (affidavit or newspaper publication) must be provided where names differ across certificates.

• Passport Photographs: Two recent passport-sized photos with a red background.

The Strategic Importance of Psychiatric Nursing

The decision to pursue a Post Basic degree in Psychiatric Nursing is a commitment to a challenging yet rewarding career path. Mental health remains one of the most underserved sectors in global healthcare. Psychiatric nurses play a multifaceted role, acting as clinicians, educators, and advocates for patients navigating mental illnesses ranging from depression and anxiety to complex psychotic disorders.

At AKSCONS, the curriculum is designed to bridge the gap between theory and clinical practice. Students are exposed to:

• Advanced Pharmacology: Understanding the mechanisms and side effects of psychotropic medications.

• Therapeutic Communication: Mastering the art of interacting with patients in various states of psychological distress.

• Community Mental Health: Learning how to manage mental health outside of hospital settings.

Institutional Governance and Contact Information

Under the leadership of the Registrar, Philip I. Eduok, AKSCONS has maintained a reputation for discipline and academic integrity. The management emphasizes that registration must be done through official channels to avoid falling prey to unauthorized third parties.

For candidates requiring further clarification or technical assistance, the College has provided the following support channels:

• Official Website: www.akscons.edu.ng.

• Email: [email protected]

• Phone Enquiries: 07066107100 and 08122603486

Conclusion: A Pathway to Professional Distinction

The opening of the 2026 registration for the Post Basic Psychiatric Nursing Programme at the Akwa Ibom State College of Nursing Sciences is a call to action for ambitious nurses. This programme offers the opportunity to gain specialized knowledge that is in high demand both locally and internationally. As the healthcare sector continues to recognize the vital link between physical and mental health, psychiatric nurses will remain at the forefront of this evolution.

Candidates are urged to gather their two sets of photocopies and visit the Ikot Ekpene campus before the March 20th deadline to secure their place in this transformative academic journey.