The House of Representatives has announced plans to conduct a detailed inquiry into the state of healthcare infrastructure in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), citing severe deficiencies and rising public health concerns. The lower chamber mandated a four-week deadline for the submission of a comprehensive report containing practical recommendations for systemic improvements.
The decision followed a motion of urgent public importance moved by Hon. Nnamdi Ezechi (APC, Delta), who raised alarms over the worsening condition of public health services in the nation’s capital.
Ezechi pointed out that the FCT’s rapid population growth over the past two decades has far outpaced the capacity of its existing medical facilities, many of which were built years ago without adequate expansion. He said government hospitals are now operating under intense pressure, with overcrowded wards, a chronic shortage of bed spaces, and insufficient medical personnel.
“The situation has reached a crisis point,” Ezechi said. “Patients are being turned away or left waiting for hours due to lack of space and staff. This is leading to needless loss of lives that could otherwise be prevented.”
In response, the House called on the Federal Ministry of Health and the FCT Administration to urgently conduct a joint audit of all healthcare centers in the territory. The aim is to identify areas requiring immediate upgrades, resource allocation, and expansion.
The lawmakers also advocated for the immediate release of emergency funds to facilitate the renovation of hospitals, recruitment of medical staff, and procurement of vital equipment. They emphasized the importance of engaging private sector stakeholders and international health organizations to enhance service delivery capacity while long-term reforms are being implemented.
The House further urged the Federal Government to design a sustainable healthcare infrastructure blueprint that reflects the demographic realities of the FCT and ensures equitable access to quality medical services for all residents.
Ezechi warned that without swift action, the FCT’s healthcare system could face total collapse, with dire consequences for public health and national security.
“A strategic overhaul, including modern infrastructure upgrades and a major hiring initiative for health professionals, is essential if we are to meet the needs of a growing urban population and uphold the right to health,” he concluded.
