The “Federal Capital Territory College of Nursing and Midwifery Gwagwalada (Establishment) Bill, 2025” (HB.2407) has been introduced in the House of Representatives, marking a significant step towards formalizing the operations of an institution that has been in existence since 1981. The bill is sponsored by Hon. Joshua Chinedu Obika, who represents the Abuja Municipal/Bwari Federal Constituency and has a history of sponsoring education-related legislation, including the Federal Capital Territory Scholarship Board (Establishment) Bill.
Background and Purpose of the Bill
The proposed legislation aims to provide a legal framework for the College of Nursing and Midwifery Gwagwalada, which has operated without official legal recognition since its establishment. Originally set up in Suleja, the college now resides in Gwagwalada and serves as a crucial training ground for nursing and midwifery professionals.
By modernizing the institution, the bill seeks to enhance training and research across various specialties in nursing and midwifery, offering both basic and advanced professional certificates and diplomas. This legislative effort is viewed as vital for improving healthcare delivery in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), as it aims to produce qualified healthcare professionals to meet growing demands.
Additionally, the bill is expected to provide the college with the legal backing necessary to access funding from various sources, including multilateral organizations, thereby improving its resources and capabilities.
Legislative Status
As of July 22, 2025, the bill successfully passed its first reading in the House of Representatives. This first stage of the legislative process involves the formal reading of the bill’s title, with no debate or voting taking place at this time.
Previous Legislative Efforts
This bill follows an earlier attempt to address the regulatory needs of the college, with a similar proposal considered by the Senate in July 2021. That previous effort garnered community attention and support from the then-FCT Minister, highlighting the importance of establishing a legal framework for the efficient management of the college and its financial sustainability.
With the introduction of HB.2407, the current legislative effort seeks to address the longstanding need for formal recognition and support for the Federal Capital Territory College of Nursing and Midwifery. The next steps for the bill include a second reading, debate among members, and a referral to the relevant committee for detailed review.
