The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, says strengthening Nigeria’s healthcare system is key to saving lives, boosting productivity, and reducing the country’s annual medical tourism bill estimated at over $2 billion.
Abbas who made this known at a public hearing organized by the House Committee on Healthcare Services on seven health-related bills at the National Assembly Complex, Abuja said developing a more resilient and accountable health sector would allow the nation to retain vital resources currently spent abroad and reinvest them into the local economy.
Represented by the Deputy Chief Whip, Hon Ibrahim Isiaka, said the new healthcare reform bills before the National Assembly aim to close regulatory loopholes, improve professional standards, and build public trust in Nigeria’s medical system.
Chairman of the House Committee on Healthcare Services, Hon. Amos Magaji, reaffirmed the committee’s commitment to transparency, inclusivity, and people-centered legislation. Some of the stakeholders who participated in the public hearing expressed both support and reservations about the proposed bills.
