Historic Medical Education Bill Passed in Lagos
The Lagos State House of Assembly has achieved a significant legislative milestone by passing the University of Medicine and Health Sciences Bill into law. This landmark decision was finalized on Thursday, 20 November 2025, following the bill's successful third reading.
The new legislation represents a crucial step forward in strengthening Nigeria's healthcare infrastructure. It specifically aims to tackle the persistent shortage of medical professionals while enhancing local research capabilities across the medical field.
Legislative Process and Key Figures
The final stages of the bill were presided over by several distinguished members of the House, including Adams Noheem, Mojeed Fatai, and Richard Kasunmu. With the legislative process now complete, the bill will be transmitted to the Governor for final assent, marking the culmination of extensive parliamentary work.
Speaker Dr Mudasiru Obasa led the proceedings, which occurred against a backdrop of growing national security concerns that dominated much of the Assembly's discussions.
Security Concerns Dominate Proceedings
The historic legislative achievement was overshadowed by urgent discussions about escalating insecurity across Nigeria. Lawmakers expressed profound concern about recent violent incidents, observing a one-minute silence in honor of victims.
Speaker Obasa voiced particular shock and sorrow over the recent killing of an Army General, describing this event as an alarming escalation in violence targeting high-ranking officials. The House also addressed the disturbing rise in abductions, specifically referencing a recent kidnapping case in Kebbi State.
Lawmakers made a passionate plea to state government and security agencies, demanding the swift and safe return of abducted children to their families. The brutal church killing in Ekiti State further highlighted the vulnerability of citizens even in places of worship.
In response to these security challenges, the House resolved to formally communicate with state government and military authorities, urging intensified efforts to combat the escalating violence.
Dual Celebrations Amid Serious Business
Despite the weighty legislative and security discussions, the House took time to commemorate International Men's Day and International Children's Day, both falling on the same date.
Lawmaker representing Lagos Island, Omolara Olumegbon, initiated the celebrations by calling for recognition of men and boys for their dedication and contributions. "Man is not by power nor by being a leader, but by securing the family," she asserted, commending men for maintaining strength and making life easier for women.
Aro Moshood expressed bewilderment that men often go unrecognized on this day, emphasizing that men must take the lead in celebrating themselves. Stephen Ogundipe echoed this sentiment, lamenting that children frequently fail to recognize the role of men in their lives.
Ogundipe called on the House to consider formal legislation that would ensure the role of men is perpetually celebrated and acknowledged in society.
Defining True Manhood
In his concluding remarks, Speaker Obasa offered a thoughtful definition of true manhood. He described a man as "a leader, truthful, and responsible" individual, emphasizing that "a good man is not by money or wealth; it is one who does the right things."
The Speaker elaborated that a man serves as the head of the family, providing leadership, acting as a role model, and avoiding behaviors that could destroy family unity. He concluded by thanking women for their support and encouraging men to continue fulfilling their responsibilities with integrity and commitment.
The passage of the University of Medicine and Health Sciences bill marks a transformative moment for healthcare education in Lagos State, potentially creating new pathways for medical training and research that could benefit the entire nation.
