In a major step toward expanding healthcare training and higher education access, the Senate during Thursday’s plenary session, has passed a bill to establish the Federal University of Medical and Health Sciences in Funtua, Katsina State.
The passage provides formal legal backing for the institution, reinforcing its capacity to deliver specialized medical education and help bridge Nigeria’s healthcare workforce deficit.
The Senate also passed the Federal Universities of Technology Act (Amendment) Bill, 2026. The amendment establishes a unified, comprehensive statutory framework to administer federal technology institutions across the country, including new universities in Eket (Akwa Ibom State) and Babura (Jigawa State).
The passage followed the presentation and consideration of a report submitted by the Senate Committee on Tertiary Institutions and TETFund during plenary.
Presenting the report, Committee Chairman Senator Muntari Dandutse (APC–Katsina South)—who also sponsored the Funtua university bill—stated that the committee recommended passage following extensive stakeholder consultations and rigorous legislative review.
The establishment of the Federal University of Medical and Health Sciences in Funtua will widen educational opportunities and supply the critical skills required for Nigeria’s broader socio-economic growth.
Senator Muntari Dandutse.
Key Highlights of the Approved Bills
- Legal Foundation for Active Campuses: Provides necessary statutory backing for newly created tertiary institutions, ensuring operational clarity and formal federal recognition.
- Healthcare & Technological Focus: Expands specialized training in medical research, health sciences, and advanced technology across key geopolitical zones.
- National & Regional Impact: Positions Nigerian universities to absorb growing domestic demand for higher education while attracting international students from across Africa and beyond.
Following the adoption of the committee’s recommendations and third-reading passage, President of the Senate Godswill Akpabio commended Senator Dandutse, the committee members, and lawmakers for their dedication to the legislative process.
Senate President Akpabio emphasized that passing enabling laws eliminates legal ambiguities for institutions already in operation, safeguarding their administrative structure and long-term funding eligibility.
“This legislation closes critical statutory gaps and provides a solid foundation for these institutions,” Akpabio stated. “It will expand access to quality tertiary education for millions of young Nigerians and strengthen our regional academic leadership.
