Senate Passes for Second Reading Bill for Establishment of Kogi University of Medicine

The Nigerian Senate has successfully passed for second reading a pivotal bill aimed at establishing the Federal University of Medicine and Medical Sciences in Egbe, Kogi State. The initiative, initially sponsored by Senator Karimi Sunday (APC, Kogi-West), marks a significant advancement in the nation's medical education framework.

During his lead debate, Senator Sunday highlighted that the bill had not been signed into law before the conclusion of the previous Senate’s tenure, necessitating its revisit by the current assembly. On Wednesday, the 10th Senate embraced the opportunity to reintroduce and support the bill, demonstrating a renewed commitment to enhancing medical training in the country.

In addition to the medical university bill, the Senate also endorsed a proposal to establish the Federal University of Education (Special) in Oyo. Sponsored by Senator Akintunde Abiodun (APC, Oyo-Central), this bill aims to create a specialized institution that focuses on equipping individuals—particularly those with disabilities—with essential skills for various professions.

Senator Abiodun emphasized the uniqueness of the proposed university, asserting that Nigeria currently lacks such an educational institution. “This is a very important bill; I urge distinguished senators to support it because of the immense benefits it will bring to Nigerians,” he stated, advocating for the educational advancement of all citizens.

Supporting the initiative, Deputy Senate President Sen. Barau Jibrin (APC, Kano-North) affirmed the necessity of a specialized university in Nigeria, echoing the sentiments of his colleagues. He noted, “We don’t have such a special university in this country. We have it in other parts of the world. In Nigeria, we need it as well, and we have to make adequate preparations for teaching the disabled.”

The Senate also deliberated on another significant bill for the establishment of the Federal College of Education (Special) Karate, sponsored by Senator Suleiman Abdulrahman-Kawu (NNPP, Kano-South). The initiative received broad support from several senators, including Sen. Jibrin, Sen. Abdul Ningi (PDP, Bauchi-Central), Sen. Ekong Sampson (PDP, Akwa Ibom-South), and Sen. Adams Oshiomhole (APC, Edo-North).

Senator Oshiomhole remarked on the potential of individuals with disabilities, stating, “There is ability in disability, although we do more talking about it than truly acting on it. Recently, Nigeria won medals at the Paralympics games, which showed how much people with disabilities can add value to national development.”

As these bills progress, they signify a commitment to improving educational opportunities and fostering inclusivity in Nigeria, laying a foundation for a more diverse and skilled workforce in the years to come.