The Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) of the United Kingdom (UK) has launched an investigation into 1,955 Nigerian nurses and midwives for alleged involvement in examination malpractice at the Yunnik Technologies Test Centre in Ibadan, Oyo State. The NMC confirmed the investigation in a report released on Wednesday, April 2, 2025.
The scandal came to light after the UK-based regulatory body identified unusual testing patterns at the Ibadan centre. In 2023, the NMC began its inquiry into the centre after receiving a tip-off regarding suspicious data. A thorough examination of the Computer-Based Test (CBT) results, which are a key requirement for foreign-trained nurses seeking UK registration, revealed highly unlikely completion times, raising concerns about widespread cheating.
The NMC’s investigation uncovered that many candidates at Yunnik completed the CBT in an unusually short time, far faster than the typical completion times seen at other centres both in Nigeria and globally. This discrepancy led to the identification of four distinct groups within the investigation:
48 registered nurses whose CBT completion times strongly suggest fraudulent activity.
669 nurses seeking UK registration with results indicating potential fraud.
467 registered nurses whose CBTs were invalidated, though no fraud was found.
771 nurses seeking registration whose CBTs were invalidated due to insufficient evidence of fraud.
In its report, the NMC emphasized that it has a dedicated team managing the cases and is working to expedite hearings for those who present extenuating circumstances. The investigation has already led to some Nigerian nurses being instructed to leave the UK.
To support those affected by the scandal, the NMC has collaborated with employers to ensure proper care for the nurses involved. Additionally, the NMC has worked with the Nigerian Nurses Charitable Association UK, unions, and representative organizations to maintain effective communication throughout the investigation.
In response to the growing concerns, the NMC has expanded its Careline service, providing 24/7 emotional and practical support, and increased access to safeguarding professionals to assist those impacted by the situation.
The NMC remains committed to ensuring that the integrity of the nursing profession is upheld, both in the UK and globally.
