Reps move to establish College of Nursing in Lagos

The House of Representatives has passed a bill to establish a Federal College of Nursing and Midwifery in Ifako/Ijaiye, Lagos State. The bill aims to address the shortage of healthcare personnel in the country by providing professional training, research and continuing education opportunities for nurses and midwives. Its sponsor, Mr Benjamin Olabinjo, emphasized the critical role nurses and midwives play in patient care, maternal health and newborn survival, and highlighted the migration of trained professionals to other countries, straining Nigeria's healthcare system.

The proposed college would offer various qualifications, admit students, conduct examinations, conduct research, organize academic programs and provide continuing education for professionals. It would also create jobs for lecturers, administrators and support staff, while stimulating economic activities within the host community.

If passed, the bill would provide the legal framework for establishing the federal institution in Lagos, a state with a high demand for qualified healthcare workers.