By OBSERVERS TIMES
The Nigerian Senate has passed the bill for the establishment of the National Eye Centre in Ochadamu, Kogi State, sponsored by Senator Jibrin Isah Echocho, who represents Kogi East Senatorial District.
The bill mandates the Federal Government to take over the assets and liabilities of the centre, a move considered crucial for improving eye healthcare services in the region and beyond.
The passage followed a favorable report from the Senate Committee on Health (Secondary and Tertiary), chaired by Senator Ipalibo Harry Banigo, presented during plenary on Tuesday in Abuja. Senator Banigo urged his colleagues to approve the report, emphasizing that federal takeover of the centre would greatly benefit Nigerians.
He highlighted the strategic location of Ochadamu in Kogi East, which positions the centre to serve patients with eye-related conditions from the South East, South South, and northern zones of the country.
Senator Banigo stated: “The Senate do receive and consider the reports of the Committee on Health,” underscoring the importance of the facility for national healthcare delivery.
Deputy Senate President, Senator Jibrin Barau, who presided over the session, commended the Health Committee for their thorough and timely report. He also praised Senator Isah Echocho for sponsoring a bill with significant value to his constituents and Nigerians at large.
“I commend Senator Jibrin Isah Echocho for sponsoring this bill and look forward to seeing it advance healthcare delivery to the people,” Senator Barau remarked.
With the bill now passed, it will be forwarded to the President for assent, marking a critical step toward enhancing specialized eye care services in Nigeria.
