House of Representatives Approves Nursing College in Lagos

The House of Representatives has passed a bill through a second reading to establish a Federal College of Nursing and Midwifery in Ifako/Ijaiye Local Government Area, Lagos State. The bill, sponsored by Mr Benjamin Olabinjo, aims to expand access to professional training and address the shortage of healthcare personnel in Nigeria.

During the plenary, Olabinjo highlighted the critical need for more qualified nurses and midwives, citing the migration of trained professionals to Western countries as a significant factor straining Nigeria's healthcare system. He stated that the proposed college would provide professional certificates, diplomas, degrees, and post-basic qualifications in nursing, midwifery, and related fields.

The institution would also have a governing council, a School of Nursing, and a School of Midwifery. Olabinjo emphasized that increasing the number of trained midwives is essential for reducing preventable maternal and infant deaths, particularly in areas lacking skilled birth attendants.