The UK Home Office has issued deportation notices to several Nigerian nurses caught up in an ongoing fraud investigation by the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC), despite their appeals still being unresolved.

Background: The NMC’s Investigation into Nigerian Nurses

The controversy began when the NMC launched an investigation into the Yunnik Technologies Test Centre in Ibadan, Nigeria, after detecting unusual patterns in test data. The centre was responsible for conducting the computer-based test (CBT) required for Nigerian nurses to register in the UK.

The NMC alleged that some nurses had passed their CBT through fraudulent means, including the use of proxy testers (people sitting the exam on behalf of applicants). As a result, almost 2,000 Nigerian nurses were affected, with some having their registrations revoked or their applications denied.

Home Office Cancels Visas, Orders Nurses to Leave

Many of these nurses had already started working in the UK when the allegations surfaced. Some lost their jobs, and now, the #HomeOffice has cancelled their visas, instructing them to leave the UK—even while they await appeal decisions. Some have been given as little as a week’s notice to leave.

A legal challenge is underway, with 48 nurses planning to sue the NMC for what they claim is unfair treatment. Their legal representatives argue that the NMC has deliberately delayed hearings, allowing the Home Office to deport them before they have a chance to defend themselves.

Legal Battle and Calls for Fair Hearings

The nurses’ legal team, Broad Street Solicitors, has accused the NMC of failing to respond to a pre-action protocol letter sent in February 2025, which demanded:

• Faster appeal hearings to avoid unnecessary deportations

• Reinstatement of nurses on the register while their cases are reviewed

• Coordination with the Home Office to prevent premature visa cancellations

One nurse has already won her appeal, proving she passed her CBT fairly through preparation and experience. Lawyers argue that the same ruling should apply to others in similar situations.

NMC and Home Office Under Pressure

The #NMC denies delaying hearings intentionally, claiming it is working to resolve cases as quickly as possible. However, many nurses fear losing everything before getting a fair hearing.

For many Nigerian nurses in the UK, this situation raises serious concerns about job security, immigration status, and the fairness of regulatory actions.

What Next?

With deportation dates fast approaching, the legal fight continues. Will the UK government reconsider its stance, or will these nurses be forced to leave without a fair trial?

Source: BBC News