A bill to establish a Federal Medical Centre in Ihima, in Kogi State’s Okehi Local Government Area, has passed second reading in Nigeria’s House of Representatives, according to a statement from the office of its sponsor, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
The measure, Senate Bill 521, would amend the Federal Medical Centres Act to provide for the new facility. It was listed among the bills scheduled for second reading on the House Order Paper for Wednesday.
Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central Senatorial District, said the bill’s progress was an important step for her constituents.
“Our people deserve improved access to quality healthcare, modern medical facilities and specialised services closer to home,” she said in the statement.
The proposed centre is intended to strengthen healthcare infrastructure and bring specialised services closer to residents of Kogi Central and neighbouring communities. The statement said that, if enacted, the facility could improve access to tertiary healthcare, reduce the need to travel long distances for specialist treatment, and create jobs for health professionals.
The bill must still complete the remaining legislative stages before it can become law. It would then go to the president for assent, as the constitution requires.
“We will continue to pursue this process diligently and work towards the successful passage of the bill and its eventual assent by Mr President,” Akpoti-Uduaghan said.
