In a significant step toward improving healthcare delivery in Southern Kaduna, the Nigerian Senate has passed the Federal Medical Centre Act (Amendment) Bill, 2024 (SB. 355), which paves the way for the establishment of a Federal Medical Centre (FMC) in Kafanchan, Kaduna State.
The bill, initially introduced on February 21, 2024, was sponsored by Senator Sunday Marshall Katung, who represents the Kaduna South Senatorial District. Its passage marks a pivotal development in addressing the chronic lack of access to quality healthcare in the region.
Speaking on the Senate’s decision, Senator Katung described the bill's approval as a "transformational moment" for Southern Kaduna, a region long plagued by inadequate medical facilities and the hardships associated with traveling long distances for specialized treatment.
“The new FMC will drastically reduce the need for residents to undertake time-consuming and costly journeys in search of advanced medical care a situation that has led to unnecessary delays in treatment and avoidable fatalities,” he stated.
Presidential Backing and Next Steps
Interestingly, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had already given his nod to the creation of the facility, even before the bill completed its legislative journey through the National Assembly. This proactive support from the Presidency underscores the urgent need for improved medical infrastructure in the area.
Following the Senate’s approval, the bill will now be harmonized with its counterpart version from the House of Representatives through a conference committee. Once both chambers reach a consensus, the harmonized version will be forwarded to the President for final assent.
A Boost to Local Economy and Healthcare Workforce
Senator Katung emphasized that beyond healthcare delivery, the new medical centre is expected to serve as a catalyst for economic development. According to him, the project will create direct and indirect employment opportunities, attract skilled healthcare professionals to the region, and support medical research and training initiatives.
He also expressed appreciation to key national leaders for their support in seeing the bill through:
“I sincerely thank President Tinubu, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau, and all my colleagues for their support. This is a major stride toward equitable healthcare infrastructure and a testament to my commitment to the progress of Southern Kaduna.”
The Senate’s endorsement represents not only a legislative victory but also a renewed hope for residents of Kaduna South who have long yearned for better healthcare services. The establishment of the FMC in Kafanchan is now one step closer to becoming a reality bringing with it the promise of improved public health outcomes and regional development.
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