The House of Representatives has taken a significant step towards establishing a new university in Nigeria, with the passage of a bill to establish the Federal University of Medical and Health Sciences in Item Bende, Abia State. The bill, which was sponsored by Deputy Speaker Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu and five other lawmakers, has passed its third reading and is now one step closer to becoming a reality.
The proposed university will offer full-time training leading to the award of degrees in medical and health sciences, with a focus on producing socially mature persons who can contribute to the scientific transformation of medical and other health practices in Nigeria. The university will also act as a catalyst for the effective and economic utilization of Nigeria’s natural, economic, and human resources.
The bill was passed after the consideration and adoption of recommendations presented by the House Committee on University Education. The House approved all 29 clauses, schedules, memorandum, and long title of the bill, paving the way for the establishment of the university.
According to the committee’s report, the university will be a body corporate with perpetual succession and a common seal, and will have the power to sue and be sued in its corporate name. The general objects of the university will include encouraging the advancement of learning, developing and offering academic and professional programs, and promoting sound basic scientific training.
The passage of the bill is a significant milestone in the establishment of the university, and it is expected to have a positive impact on the development of medical and health sciences in Nigeria.
