The Nigerian Senate has passed a bill for the establishment of the National Eye Centre in Ochadamu, Kogi State, marking a significant development for healthcare services in the region.

The bill, sponsored by Senator Jibrin Isah Echocho representing Kogi East Senatorial District, seeks to have the Federal Government take over the assets and liabilities of the existing eye centre.

The passage followed a comprehensive report submitted by the Senate Committee on Health (Secondary and Tertiary), chaired by Senator Ipalibo Harry Banigo, during Tuesday's plenary session in Abuja.

In presenting the report, Senator Banigo emphasized the strategic importance of the eye centre, noting that its location in Kogi East would make it accessible to citizens from the South East, South South, and northern zones of the country seeking eye-related healthcare services.

"That the Senate do receive and consider the reports of the Committee on Health," Banigo stated while urging lawmakers to approve the report.

The bill received widespread support from senators present during the session, with many highlighting the potential benefits of the centre to Nigerians suffering from various eye conditions.

Deputy Senate President, Senator Jibrin Barau, who presided over the session, commended the Health Committee for its detailed report and timely consideration of the bill. He also praised Senator Isah for sponsoring legislation with significant value for his constituents and Nigerians at large.

"I commend Senator Jibrin Isah Echocho for sponsoring this bill as I look forward to seeing that this bill helps to advance healthcare delivery to the people," Barau remarked.

The establishment of the National Eye Centre in Ochadamu is expected to significantly improve access to specialized eye care services and reduce the burden of eye-related ailments across multiple regions of the country.

The bill now awaits further legislative processes before it can be signed into law by the President.