Reps move to establish College of Nursing in Lagos

The House of Representatives has approved a bill to create a Federal College of Nursing and Midwifery in Lagos, aimed at boosting access to professional training and tackling the shortage of healthcare personnel across the country. The bill was introduced by Mr. Benjamin Olabinjo, representing the Ifako/Ijaiye Federal Constituency in Lagos.

Olabinjo emphasized the importance of the proposed institution in increasing the number of qualified nurses and midwives, addressing the skills gap, and improving maternal and child health services. He highlighted the need for more training opportunities in Lagos, one of Nigeria's most populous states, as the existing federally accredited training places were insufficient.

The bill would enable the college to offer certificates, diplomas, degrees, and post-basic qualifications in nursing, midwifery, and related fields. It would also empower the institution to admit students, conduct examinations, conduct research, organize academic programmes, and provide continuing education for professionals. The proposed college would comprise a governing council, a School of Nursing, a School of Midwifery, and principal officers responsible for its administration and academic activities.

Olabinjo argued that enhancing healthcare delivery, particularly maternal and child care, would require producing more skilled professionals. He added that the college would create educational and employment opportunities for young people in the area and stimulate economic activities within the host community. He urged colleagues to support the bill's second reading and referred it to the relevant committee for further legislative consideration.