In a move hailed by proponents as a step toward healthcare equity in the Niger Delta, the Nigerian Senate has passed the Federal Medical Centre (Establishment) Bill, 2023.
The bill, sponsored by Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas (Delta South), seeks to establish a Federal Medical Centre (FMC) in Oleh, the administrative headquarters of Isoko South Local Government Area in Delta State.
Originally introduced on November 7, 2023, the bill cleared its third reading today after scaling through the second reading on October 22, 2024.
It now awaits concurrence from the House of Representatives before becoming law.
Senator Joel-Onowakpo emphasized that the proposed medical centre aims to alleviate the burden on distant hospitals and improve access to specialist healthcare services across Delta South.
He cited the potential for the FMC to reduce preventable deaths, attract medical professionals, and stimulate economic growth through job creation and research activities.
The senator expressed appreciation to Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau, and Majority Leader Michael Opeyemi Bamidele for their support, calling the bill’s passage a “landmark step” for the region.
As the bill moves to the House for concurrence, stakeholders are calling for a transparent implementation plan and sustained funding to ensure the centre delivers on its promises.
A memo sighted by The Story reads: “The Nigerian Senate has passed the Federal Medical Centre (Establishment) Bill, 2023, to create a Federal Medical Centre in Oleh, Delta State.
“Sponsored by Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas (Delta South), the bill was first introduced on November 7, 2023, and passed its third reading today after scaling through the second reading on October 22, 2024.
“Senator Joel-Onowakpo said the centre, to be sited in Oleh—the senatorial headquarters—will reduce the pressure on distant hospitals, improve access to specialist healthcare, and curb preventable deaths across Delta South.
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“He noted that the FMC will not only enhance healthcare delivery but also create jobs, attract skilled professionals, promote medical research, and boost local economic activity.
“The Senator commended Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau, and Majority Leader Michael Opeyemi Bamidele for their support, describing the bill’s passage as a landmark step toward healthcare equity in the region.
“The bill now awaits concurrence from the House of Representatives”.
