In a recent session at the House of Representatives in Abuja, a bill proposing the establishment of the Federal College of Nursing and Midwifery in Awa-Ijebu, Ogun State, successfully passed its second reading. Joseph Adegbesan, the bill’s sponsor and representative of Ijebu North/Ijebu East/Ogun Waterside Federal Constituency of Ogun, emphasized the potential for increased training and research in nursing and midwifery.
During the debate, Adegbesan urged fellow lawmakers to support the bill, highlighting that the proposed college would offer professional certificates, diplomas, degrees, and other post-basic certificates. He emphasized the importance of the college’s role in general administration and its potential to address the shortage of skilled personnel in the health sector, both within Ogun State and across the nation.
Adegbesan also drew attention to the alarming number of nurses and midwives leaving the country for overseas work, citing figures from the Nursing Council registrar that indicated approximately 15,000 professionals departed in 2023. With the current ratio of eight nurses and midwives for every 10,000 people, he stressed the need to align with the World Health Organization’s recommendation of five practitioners for every 2,000 people.
The legislator argued that the establishment of additional nursing and midwifery schools would not only contribute to meeting international standards but also enhance the economic growth and development of Nigeria. Following the debate, other lawmakers unanimously expressed their support for the bill, echoing the necessity for more medical practitioners to align with WHO guidelines. Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu presided over the plenary, where a voice vote unanimously adopted and passed the bill for its second reading.
