The House of Representatives has passed for second reading a bill for an act to establish the National Hospital for Women, Ideato, in Imo State, with a mandate to specialise in the promotion of reproductive and maternal health, research, prevention, sensitisation, and treatment of obstetric fistula, among other related matters.
The proposed legislation, sponsored by Hon. Ikenga Ugochinyere, who represents the Ideato North/South Federal Constituency, aims to address major gaps in Nigeria’s maternal and reproductive healthcare system through the establishment of a specialised tertiary hospital focused on women’s health.
Leading the debate on the bill’s general principles, Ugochinyere highlighted the pressing challenge of obstetric fistula and other maternal health complications in the country.
He cited data from the Federal Ministry of Health, which indicates that tens of thousands of Nigerian women are living with this preventable condition, particularly in rural and underserved communities.
He attributed this burden to limited access to quality maternal healthcare, the absence of specialised medical institutions, and inadequate research infrastructure.
Ugochinyere urged fellow lawmakers to support the bill, noting that the proposed hospital would provide comprehensive care, rehabilitation, and education services for women, with a particular focus on obstetric fistula and reproductive health.
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He further explained that the hospital would:
- Promote excellence in maternal and reproductive health services,
- Foster research and development in gynaecology and public health,
- Serve as a policy innovation hub,
- Offer training for health professionals in women’s healthcare.
Quoting the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), Ugochinyere noted:
“According to the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), Nigeria accounts for a significant proportion of the global burden of obstetric fistula, with an estimated 12,000 new cases occurring annually.
“Despite concerted efforts by various organisations and stakeholders, access to quality treatment and preventive measures remains a significant challenge, particularly in rural and underserved areas like Ideato, Imo State.
“The National Hospital for Women, Ideato, will serve as a dedicated national centre of excellence to close this gap, with a focus on treatment, prevention, education, and sensitisation.
“It will also serve as a research and training centre for health professionals, while enhancing the overall quality of care available to Nigerian women, particularly those in rural and disadvantaged areas.”
He added that the bill’s passage and the hospital’s eventual establishment would:
- Improve access to quality obstetric and gynaecological care,
- Enhance research into reproductive health and innovative treatment options,
- Boost public awareness and empower women to make informed health decisions,
- Reduce the prevalence of obstetric fistula and its socio-economic consequences,
- Attract medical tourism by offering specialised healthcare services.
The bill was put to a voice vote by the Deputy Speaker, Rt Hon. Benjamin Kalu, and was passed.