N’Assembly plans medical centre for senators, reps

The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, disclosed plans by the National Assembly to establish an ultra-modern medical centre for senators, members of the House of Representatives and staffers of the federal parliament.

Akpabio made the disclosure, on Thursday, in his address to welcome his colleagues back to the chamber after observing the Eid-El-Kabir holiday.

He specifically said the planned hospital would be constructed in such a way that it would be accessible to all the lawmakers and staffers of the national assembly for their health challenges.

“In this our second legislative year, it is our plan to establish a state-of-the-art medical facility in close proximity to us to serve the distinguished senators, honourable members, National Assembly staff, and our esteemed guests.

“This initiative aims to provide functional and effective healthcare for all,” he said.

He listed the passage of twenty-five bills as part of the achievements of the tenth senate in its first legislative year.

Some of the bills, according to him, are the South-East Development Bill, Northern Development Bill, Old National Anthem Bill and Death Penalty for Drug Traffickers Bill.

“We successfully passed twenty-five bills, diligently fulfilled our oversight responsibilities, fostered inter-parliamentary cooperation and diplomacy, and intervened in matters close to the hearts of our fellow countrymen.

“With remarkable efficiency, we swiftly approved the 2024 appropriation bill in record time, setting the stage for the timely implementation of the budget. We championed the South East Development Bill and the Northern Development Bill.

“Bridging the gap between our glorious past and our inspiring future, we dug into our history and restored the treasurable old National Anthem in the National Anthem Bill,” Akpabio added.

Similarly, he said NASS also stood firm in protecting children and future generations by passing the death penalty for drug traffickers Bill.

He added that the Bill to increase salaries and allowances of judicial officers, the Student Loan Scheme Bill, the NYSC Trust Fund Bill and the bill for the establishment of the Nigeria Maritime Agency were also passed aside commissioning of the National Assembly Library, engaging in parliamentary diplomacy to promote the international community.

Akpabio assured that the upper chamber would continue to strive to eradicate poverty in the country.

“The Tenth Senate’s commitment to poverty alleviation goes beyond mere duty; it is an obligation we hold dear.

“We must continue working tirelessly to ensure that all our policies are designed to provide sustenance for every Nigerian.

“It is crucial to remember that the strength of a chain is determined by its weakest link, and thus, we must steadfastly support the Executive in their efforts to renew the hopes of our fellow Nigerians,” he urged.

He stated that in this difficult time, NASS cannot turn a blind eye to the burning problems that afflict the nation.

“Insecurity, the need for economic growth and diversification, the fight against corruption, and the pursuit of social justice are just a few of the pivotal issues that require our patriotic commitment and collective determination.

“In times like these, true leadership and faithful representation are called for.

“We must rise above partisan interests and prioritise the common good. Our mandate is not solely to legislate, but to be the voice of the people, representing their hopes and dreams, and working tirelessly to create a Nigeria that is fair, prosperous, and inclusive,” he stressed.