By Andrew Haruna
Abuja, Nigeria – The Nigerian Senate has passed legislation to establish a Federal Medical Centre (FMC) in Kafanchan, Kaduna State, marking a significant advancement in healthcare infrastructure for the region.
Sponsored by Senator Sunday Marshall Katung (Kaduna South), the Federal Medical Centre Act (Amendment) Bill 2024 received overwhelming support in the upper chamber. The legislation addresses critical gaps in medical service provision across Southern Kaduna, where residents have historically faced challenges accessing specialized care.
Senator Katung emphasized the transformative potential of the new facility, stating: “This medical center will eliminate the need for our constituents to undertake arduous journeys for essential treatments. The current situation, where patients travel long distances with often tragic consequences, is unacceptable in a modern Nigeria.”
The proposed FMC is projected to deliver comprehensive healthcare services while stimulating local economic development through job creation and attracting medical professionals to the region.
Key provisions of the bill include:
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Construction of a 250-bed tertiary healthcare facility
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Establishment of specialist departments including cardiology and oncology
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Development of training programs for healthcare workers
Senate President Godswill Akpabio commended the legislative initiative, noting its alignment with the National Health Act and the Tinubu administration’s healthcare agenda. The bill now proceeds to the House of Representatives for concurrence before presidential assent.
Local stakeholders have welcomed the development, with the Southern Kaduna Peoples Union describing it as “a long-awaited solution to our healthcare challenges.” Medical professionals in the region anticipate the center will significantly reduce patient referrals to distant facilities.
