A total of 433 out of 836 foreign-trained medical graduates who participated in the qualifying examination organized by the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) have reportedly failed. The examination, held at the Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital between November 22 and 23, 2023, included a Computer-Based Test (CBT), a picture-based test, and an objective structural clinical examination.
The CBT format was administered in four different centers: BMG Institute of Information Technology, JAMB Professional Test Centre, Kano Cooperative CBT Centre, and Treztech, all located in Kano State. Findings indicate that many of the medical and dental graduates performed poorly in the CBT section of the examination.
Initially, a total of 836 candidates with medical degrees from foreign universities were shortlisted for the examination. However, only 403 candidates passed, according to the results obtained by The PUNCH. Each year, numerous Nigerians pursue medical and dental degrees abroad, investing substantial resources in tuition and accommodation fees. After completing their studies, they must pass the MDCN assessment to obtain a license to practice in Nigeria.
Foreign destinations for medical studies favored by Nigerians include Ukraine, Sudan, Cyprus, Egypt, The Caribbean, Russia, Belarus, India, Hungary, Guyana, Niger Republic, and Benin Republic. The MDCN assessment, conducted twice a year, tests candidates’ ability to apply basic medical sciences and clinical skills in a healthcare setting. The MDCN Registrar, Dr. Tajudeen Sanusi, emphasized that the assessment examination is a global practice aimed at maintaining healthcare standards in the country.