About the Council
Our History
The journey of TCAM coordination in Nigeria
The Nigerian Council of Physicians of Natural Medicine (NCPNM) and the Association of Physicians of Complementary and Alternative Medicine (APCAM) were established to address the critical need for coordination and standardization of Natural Medicine practice in Nigeria.
For decades, traditional and complementary medicine practitioners operated without a unified coordination framework. Recognizing the immense potential of Nigeria's rich biodiversity in medicinal plants and the growing global interest in evidence-based natural therapies, visionary practitioners came together to form a professional body that would elevate the practice and protect the public.
Since its inception, NCPNM has worked tirelessly with the Federal Ministry of Health, NAFDAC, and international bodies like the WHO to establish practice standards, accreditation frameworks, and continuing professional development programs that have transformed Natural Medicine practice in Nigeria.
Today, the Council boasts over 5,000 registered practitioners across all 36 states, operates 10 specialized departments, and continues to champion the integration of Traditional, Complementary and Alternative Medicine (TCAM) into Nigeria's national healthcare system.
Legal Framework
Our authority and recognition in the coordination landscape
Federal Recognition
NCPNM is recognized by the Federal Government of Nigeria as the professional coordinating body for Natural Medicine practitioners, operating under the coordination framework for professional bodies.
Coordinating Authority
The Council exercises coordinating authority over the practice of Natural Medicine, including registration, accreditation, discipline, and enforcement of professional standards nationwide.
International Standards
NCPNM aligns its standards with WHO Traditional Medicine Strategy, African Union health frameworks, and international best practices in complementary and alternative medicine coordination.
Council Structure
The governance hierarchy that drives our mission
Annual General Meeting
Supreme governing body of all registered members
Executive Council
Elected leadership responsible for strategic direction
Standing Committees
Specialized committees for key operational areas
Departments
10 departments covering the major specialization areas
Geopolitical Zones
Six geopolitical zones coordinating activities nationwide
Government Affiliations
Our collaborative partnerships with government agencies
Public Protection Mandate
Our commitment to safeguarding the Nigerian public
Protecting the Public Interest
The NCPNM is fundamentally established to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the Nigerian public. Through rigorous registration processes, continuous professional development requirements, and a robust ethics and disciplinary framework, the Council ensures that only qualified, competent, and ethical practitioners are authorized to provide Natural Medicine services.
The Council investigates complaints against practitioners, maintains a publicly accessible register of licensed professionals, and enforces practice standards that safeguard patients. By setting clear educational requirements, accrediting training institutions, and mandating ongoing professional development, NCPNM creates a system of accountability that earns and maintains public trust in Natural Medicine.