The Akwa Ibom State College of Nursing Sciences (AKSCONS), Ikot Ekpene, has officially announced the start of registration for its Post-Basic Psychiatric Nursing Programme for the 2026 academic session. The announcement was issued by the College Registrar, Mr. Philip I. Eduok, inviting qualified nurses who are ready to advance their careers in mental health care.

This development comes at a time when mental health services are gaining increased attention across Nigeria. By expanding access to specialist psychiatric nursing training, AKSCONS is reinforcing its role as a key contributor to professional nursing education and healthcare delivery in the state and beyond.

Registration Schedule and Venue

To ensure an orderly and well-coordinated exercise, the college has released a clear registration timeline. Interested applicants are encouraged to comply strictly with the schedule to avoid unnecessary delays.

• Registration Begins: Monday, 9 February 2026
• Registration Closes: Friday, 20 March 2026
• Daily Time: 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
• Venue: Akwa Ibom State College of Nursing Sciences, Ikot Ekpene

Registration is conducted physically on campus, allowing officials to verify documents immediately. The registration office operates only on weekdays, and candidates are advised to plan their visit within the stated hours, especially those coming from outside Ikot Ekpene.

Who Can Apply?

The Post-Basic Psychiatric Nursing Programme is designed for qualified nurses seeking specialization in mental health. As a result, admission requirements are strictly professional and academic.

Professional Requirement

Applicants must possess a Registered Nurse (RN) Certificate issued by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN). This confirms eligibility for post-basic nursing training.

Academic (O’Level) Requirements

Candidates must have five credit passes in the following subjects:

• English Language
• Mathematics
• Physics
• Chemistry
• Biology

Results must be obtained from recognized bodies such as WAEC, NECO, GCE, or NABTEB, and may be combined in not more than two sittings.

Documents Required for Registration

Applicants are expected to submit two photocopies of each of the following documents during registration:

• Registered Nurse (RN) Certificate
• O’Level result(s)
• First School Leaving Certificate (FSLC)
• Testimonial from the last nursing institution attended
• Birth Certificate or sworn Age Declaration
• Certificate of Origin
• Legal proof of name change (where applicable)
• Two recent passport photographs (red background)

Incomplete documentation may delay or disqualify an application, so candidates are advised to prepare all requirements ahead of time.

Why Choose Psychiatric Nursing?

Psychiatric nursing remains one of the most critical yet underserved areas of healthcare. Nurses trained in this field play vital roles in managing mental illnesses, supporting emotional rehabilitation, and promoting community mental health awareness.

The AKSCONS Post-Basic Psychiatric Nursing Programme equips students with practical and theoretical skills in areas such as:

• Mental health assessment and diagnosis
• Psychotropic drug management
• Therapeutic communication techniques
• Community-based psychiatric care
• Ethical and professional practice in mental health settings

Graduates of the programme are well-positioned for employment in teaching hospitals, psychiatric facilities, community health centers, and international healthcare institutions.

Official Contacts and Enquiries

The College Management has advised applicants to rely only on official channels for information and registration.

• Website: www.akscons.edu.ng
• Email: akscons@yahoo.com
• Phone Numbers: 07066107100, 08122603486

Final Note

The release of the 2026 Post-Basic Psychiatric Nursing Programme by the Akwa Ibom State College of Nursing Sciences represents a valuable opportunity for nurses seeking professional growth and specialization. As mental health continues to gain prominence in healthcare delivery, trained psychiatric nurses will remain highly sought after.

Interested candidates are encouraged to complete their registration before the March 20, 2026 deadline and take the next step toward a rewarding and impactful nursing career.