(SINL NIGERIA) The bill for the establishment of Federal Medical Centre in Gembu, Taraba state through the amendment of the federal medical centers Act 2022 has been described as historic milestone in Nigeria’s quest for healthcare coverage, economic development, and national security.
The Sponsor of the bill, Senator Haruna Manu has observed that the centre when established will save lives, reduce healthcare inequalities, create jobs, and present Gembu as a strategic healthcare hub for both Nigeria and the African subregion.
Senator Manu, representing Taraba Central senatorial zone gave the charge at the public hearing on the amendment of the federal medical centres act 2022 held on Thursday in Abuja.
In a memorandum submitted in support of the amendment to the Federal Medical Centres Act, 2022, seeking the establishment of the Federal Medical Centre, Gembu in Sardauna Local Government Area, Taraba State, the lawmaker argued that the amendment aims to provide a legal framework for the recognition, funding, and operationalization of FMC Gembu as part of the Federal Government’s commitment to equitable healthcare access across Nigeria.
Justifying the establishment of the medical centre, Senator Manu told the gathering that Gembu, located in the Mambilla Plateau, is a unique and location in Taraba State, sharing borders with Cameroon, with large, diverse, and growing population, many of whom lack access to health institution.
He said “due to its proximity to Cameroon, FMC, Gembu should be equipped to handle cross-border healthcare collaborations in line with Nigeria’s ECOWAS health diplomacy efforts”.
He explained the legislative considerations and recommendations, saying to ensure the full realization of this amendment’s objectives, “the amendment should mandate the annual allocation of funds for development, staffing, and equipping of FMC Gembu under the Federal Government’s healthcare expansion plan.
Additionally, Senator Manu canvassed “the law should encourage private sector participation in infrastructure development, medical equipment donations, technology partnerships, ensuring long-term sustainability”.
Speaking on administrative autonomy and governance structure, the lawmaker stated that FMC Gembu should be granted operational autonomy to efficient service delivery, competitive recruitment, and financial management within the Federal Medical Centres network.
