The representative of Taraba State Central Senatorial District, Senator Haruna Manu says the establishment of Federal Medical center Gembu in Sardauna Local Government Area, Taraba State will create employment opportunities for medical professionals, attract medical tourism and stimulate local economy.
He said this while making presentation in Abuja at the
Public hearing on the amendment of the Federal Medical Center ACT 2022.
“This memorandum is submitted in support of the amendment to the Federal Medical Centres Act, 2022, seeking the establishment of the Federal Medical Centre, Gembu in Sardauna Local Government Area, Taraba State.
“The amendment aims to provide a legal framework for the recognition, funding, and operationalization of FMC Gembu as part of the Federal Government’s commitment to equitable healthcare access across Nigeria.
“Gembu, located in the Mambilla Plateau, is a unique and stra location in Taraba State, sharing borders with Cameroon. It so large, diverse, and growing population.
“Due to its proximity to Cameroon, FMC, Gembu should be equipped to handle cross-border healthcare collaborations in line with Nigeria’s ECOWAS health diplomacy efforts.
*The establishment of Federal Medical Centre, Gembu, through will be a historic milestone in Nigeria’s quest for healthcare coverage, economic development, and national security.
” Will save lives, reduce healthcare inequalities, create jobs, and position Gembu as a strategic healthcare hub for both Nigeria and the African subregion.
“We therefore urge the National Assembly to pass this amendment, give the necessary legislative backing for its immediate
implementation.
“We appeal to all stakeholders, policymakers to support this amendment to ensure that the people of surrounding communities receive the healthcare services
“The Mambilla plateau has experienced periodic communal conflicts and border-related texans
*Establishing FMC Gembu will serve as a stabilizing factor providing medical services to victims of conflict and strengthening government presence and social welfare initiatives
“To ensure the full realization of this amendment’s objectives, the following provisions should be included
- Statutory Inclusion in the Federal Budget
The amendment should mandate the annual allocation of funds for development, staffing, and equipping of FMC Gembu under the Federal Government’s healthcare expansion plan.
- Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Framework
“The law should encourage private sector participation in infrastructure development, medical equipment donations, technology partnerships, ensuring long-term sustainability.
- Administrative Autonomy and Governance Structure
“FMC Gembu should be granted operational autonomy to efficient service delivery, competitive recruitment, and financial management within the Federal Medical Centres network.
“Strengthening Emergency Medical Response and Pandemic Preparedness
The FMC will serve as a training center for medical students resident doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals.
“It will encourage collaborative research in partnership universities, medical institutions, and international organizations, particularly in tropical medicine, high-altitude conditions, and public health interventions.
“The Federal Medical Centre, Gembu, will serve as a lifeline for thousands of Nigerians in need of quality and affordable healthcare services.
