Abuja – May 21, 2025
The House of Representatives on Tuesday deliberated on a bill seeking to establish the Federal College of Nursing, Midwifery, and Health Sciences in Ihebinowerre, Imo State, aimed at addressing Nigeria’s critical shortage of skilled healthcare professionals.
Sponsored by Hon. Barr. Harrison Anozie Nwadike, the proposed legislation titled “Federal College of Nursing, Midwifery, and Health Sciences, Ihebinowerre, Imo State (Establishment) Bill, 2025” (HB 2191), seeks to provide a legal framework for the creation, structure, governance, and funding of a new tertiary institution dedicated to training and research in general nursing, midwifery, and health sciences.
Presenting the bill on the floor of the House, Hon. Nwadike underscored the urgent need to boost Nigeria’s health workforce amid a growing trend of brain drain in the sector. He noted that the continuous migration of nurses and midwives to countries with better remuneration and working conditions had placed immense pressure on the country’s already overstretched health system.
“Thousands of trained nurses leave Nigeria annually, creating a widening gap between healthcare demand and the available workforce. This Bill is a strategic response to build local capacity and reduce our reliance on foreign-trained personnel,” he said.
The lawmaker highlighted Ihebinowerre’s strategic location in the South-East geopolitical zone, positioning it as an ideal site to serve both rural and urban populations in the region. He added that the institution would offer comprehensive academic programmes, conduct research, and serve as a hub for professional development in nursing and allied health fields.
The Bill comprises 31 clauses spread across seven parts, covering establishment, governance, academic structure, staff provisions, financial management, and general regulations.
According to the summary, the proposed college will have the powers to admit students, run accredited programmes, award diplomas and professional certificates, and foster research in areas such as maternal and child health, public health, and disease prevention.
It also provides for a Governing Council, Academic Board, and key officers including a Provost and Deputy Provosts, and details sources of funding such as federal government grants, fees, donations, and endowments.
Hon. Nwadike emphasized that the proposed college aligns with national goals on Universal Health Coverage and the Sustainable Development Goals, especially SDG 3 on good health and well-being.
“The importance of strengthening our health education infrastructure cannot be overstated. This institution will not only help produce a skilled health workforce but also contribute to the socio-economic growth of the region,” he said.
The Bill received supportive nods from members and is expected to proceed to the next legislative stage for further consideration.
Prince Maduba Chukwudi Francis.
Special Adviser on media and Publicity
