CAN A NIGERIAN COMMUNITY HEALTH PRACTITIONER WORK ABROAD?

Voice of the people -

 Many Nigerian-trained community health practitioners wonder if their skills can open doors beyond the country’s borders. The truth is simple: yes, it is possible, but it comes with specific requirements.


1. Understanding Global Recognition

In countries such as the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia, “Community Health Practitioner” as it is known in Nigeria may not exist as an official job title. Instead, similar roles include:


Public Health Officer


Community Health Worker (CHW)


Health Promotion Officer


Health Assistant or Nursing Assistant (with added certification)


2. Licensing and Certification Abroad

Before practising in most developed countries, you must meet their local licensing requirements. This may involve:


Registering with their health council or regulatory board


Completing bridging courses or competency exams


Obtaining local certifications in public or community health


3. Opportunities Outside Traditional Practice

If direct licensing feels like a long road, there are other pathways:


Working with NGOs and humanitarian organisations like WHO, UNICEF, or Red Cross


Joining international health projects across Africa, Asia, or the Middle East


Volunteering in global health programs, which often lead to paid roles


4. The Pathway to Working Abroad

If you dream of practising outside Nigeria, here are the first steps:


1. Get your academic transcripts and certificates evaluated by recognised bodies such as WES or ECCTIS.


2. Identify the equivalent role in your target country.


3. Complete any required bridging programs.


4. Apply for positions through hospitals, public health agencies, and global health NGOs.


Final Word

Your training as a community health practitioner is valuable, but international opportunities require preparation and adaptation. With the right steps, your skills can impact lives across the globe.


Call-to-Action:

If you’re a community health practitioner aiming to work abroad, share your experiences or questions in the comments below and let’s build a network that helps us all grow.




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