Bill To Establish Hospital For Women In Imo Passes 2nd Reading

The House of Representatives has passed for second reading a bill seeking to establish a National Hospital for Women in Ideato, Imo State, with a focus on reproductive and maternal health.

The proposed legislation, sponsored by Rep. Ikenga Ugochinyere Ideato North/South, Federal Constituency of Imo State, aims to bridge critical gaps in Nigeria’s healthcare system by providing specialized care for obstetric fistula, maternal complications, and reproductive health.

The hospital is also expected to serve as a center for research, training, and public sensitization.

During debate on the general principles of the bill, Ugochinyere cited data from the Federal Ministry of Health, noting that tens of thousands of Nigerian women suffer from obstetric fistula—many of them in underserved rural communities.

He said poor access to quality maternal healthcare and lack of specialized institutions remain major barriers to treatment.

According to Ugochinyere, the hospital would provide comprehensive services, including rehabilitation, education, and policy development in women’s health, while training medical professionals in gynecology and public health.

He referenced figures from the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), which estimate that Nigeria records about 12,000 new cases of obstetric fistula each year. “This hospital will be a national center of excellence focused on prevention, treatment, and empowerment,” he said.

The bill was adopted through a voice vote presided over by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu.

Oduyemi Odumade, Edited By Grace Namiji