Abuja, Nigeria – The House of Representatives has urged the Federal Government to declare a state of emergency in healthcare facilities across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), citing severe strain on medical infrastructure and personnel shortages leading to preventable deaths.
The motion, sponsored by Hon. Nnamdi Prince Ezechi, member representing Ndokwa East, Ndokwa West, and Ukwuani Federal Constituency of Delta State, was adopted during Tuesday’s plenary session.
Key Concerns Raised
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Overstretched Facilities: Existing hospitals and clinics in Abuja are operating beyond capacity, failing to meet the healthcare demands of the growing population.
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Critical Staff Shortages: Insufficient medical personnel has exacerbated patient care delays, contributing to avoidable fatalities.
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Infrastructure Decay: Poor maintenance and inadequate equipment have further crippled service delivery in FCT hospitals.
Lawmakers’ Demands
The House called on the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare to collaborate immediately with the FCT Administration to:
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Conduct an emergency assessment of all healthcare facilities in the territory.
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Deploy necessary interventions, including additional personnel and medical supplies.
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Implement urgent upgrades to infrastructure and equipment.
Next Steps
The motion has been referred to the House Committee on Healthcare Services for further legislative action. If approved, the resolution will be forwarded to the executive branch for implementation.
Broader Implications
This development highlights the deepening healthcare crisis in Nigeria’s capital, where rapid urbanization has outpaced medical infrastructure development. A state of emergency declaration could fast-track funding and reforms to prevent further deterioration of services.
