PRESS RELEASE
SENATOR DR. IPALIBO HARRY BANIGO ADVOCATES FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT OF FEDERAL MEDICAL CENTRE IN BONNY
The Chairman Senate Committee on Health, (Secondary & Tertiary), Senator Dr. Ipalibo Harry Banigo, has reaffirmed another commitment to her people as she continues to advance healthcare accessibility in Rivers West Senatorial District. The Rivers West lawmaker addressed stakeholders at the public hearing in the Senate on the Bill to amend the Federal Medical Centre Act to establish a Federal Medical Centre (FMC) in Bonny LGA, Rivers State.
The public hearing, held on Thursday February 27, 2025, provided a platform to discuss the urgent need for quality healthcare services in Bonny Local Government Area and its surrounding communities.
In her speech, the former Deputy Governor of Rivers State emphasized the critical importance of this amendment, highlighting its potential to improve healthcare access, enhance emergency response, reduce maternal and infant mortality, promote medical research, and create economic opportunities. She noted that the establishment of an FMC in Bonny would not only address a healthcare deficit but also serve as a strategic investment in human capital and community well-being.
“Currently, residents must travel long distances on the sea—often in urgent, life-threatening situations—to access advanced medical care in Port Harcourt or Yenagoa,” Senator Banigo stated. “This delay has led to avoidable maternal and infant deaths, poor emergency response, and increased mortality from chronic diseases and industrial accidents.”
The Harvard trained Public Health Physician further underscored Bonny Island’s strategic economic importance as home to the Nigeria LNG project and key oil and gas infrastructure, stressing that despite its significant contributions to the national economy, the lack of a tertiary healthcare facility has left residents vulnerable with limited access to specialized medical care.
“The passage of this bill will ensure that Bonny gets a well-equipped Federal Medical Centre, making quality healthcare accessible and reducing the burden on distant facilities,” she added.
Senator Dr. Banigo called on fellow lawmakers, stakeholders, and community leaders to actively support the bill, ensuring its swift passage and implementation. She urged all parties involved to seize this opportunity to bridge the healthcare gap and secure a healthier future for Bonny and its people.
“This public hearing is an opportunity for your voices to shape this bill and ensure that it fully meets the healthcare needs of Bonny. Your support and contributions today will strengthen the case for its passage and fast-track its implementation,” she affirmed.
The lawmaker concluded her address by expressing optimism that with collective effort and unwavering commitment, the people of Bonny will soon have access to the quality medical care they deserve.
Signed:
Abiye Alambo Briggs
Legislative Aide
27th February 2025
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