In a significant move to address the long-standing healthcare challenges in Southern Kaduna, the Senate has passed the Federal Medical Centre Act (Amendment) Bill, 2024. This milestone legislation paves the way for the establishment of a Federal Medical Centre (FMC) in Kafanchan, Kaduna State, a region that has suffered from limited access to quality medical services. The bill, sponsored by Senator Sunday Marshall Katung, was introduced to the Senate on February 21, 2024, and its passage marks a major step towards improving healthcare delivery in the area.

According to Senator Katung, the new FMC will have a profound impact on the region, reducing the burden of long-distance travel for specialist care, which often results in delayed treatments and preventable deaths. “The new FMC will help reduce the burden of long-distance travel for specialist care, which often results in delayed treatments and preventable deaths,” he emphasized. This development is expected to bring about a significant turnaround for Southern Kaduna, where residents have long struggled to access quality medical care.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had earlier given his approval for the establishment of the medical centre, even before the legislative process was concluded in both chambers of the National Assembly. The bill will now proceed to a conference committee of the Senate and House of Representatives for concurrence, after which it will be forwarded to the President for assent. Senator Katung expressed his gratitude to President Tinubu, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau, and fellow lawmakers for their support, stating, “This is a critical step toward equity in federal healthcare infrastructure and a reflection of my commitment to meaningful development in Southern Kaduna.”

The establishment of the FMC is not only expected to enhance healthcare delivery in the region but also drive economic growth by creating direct and indirect jobs, attracting medical professionals, and promoting research and training. This multifaceted approach will have a positive impact on the local economy, contributing to the overall development of Southern Kaduna. With the Senate’s approval, the stage is now set for the swift takeoff of the much-needed medical centre, marking a significant step towards addressing the healthcare challenges in the region. As the bill moves forward, residents of Southern Kaduna can look forward to improved access to quality medical care, a development that will undoubtedly have a profound impact on their lives.