By Chinazaekpere Chinwendu
Abuja |October 15, 2025 —
The Federal Medical Centre (FMC) Ikwuano Bill has advanced to a critical stage in the legislative process, having successfully passed its second reading in the House of Representatives.
The bill, which seeks to amend the Federal Medical Centres Act to establish an FMC in Ikwuano, Abia State, is now on its way to the third reading, a milestone that brings the long-anticipated healthcare facility closer to reality.
The report was presented by the House Committee on Health Institutions, chaired by Hon. Patrick Umoh.
Once enacted, the proposed FMC Ikwuano is expected to provide comprehensive healthcare services, including emergency care, maternity and child health, specialized surgeries, and chronic disease management. Also, it is projected to drastically improve access to quality medical services in Ikwuano and surrounding communities, which have long suffered from inadequate health infrastructure.
Speaking on the development, Hon. Obi Aguocha, the Member representing Ikwuano/Umuahia North and Umuahia South Federal Constituency, expressed gratitude to his colleagues in the National Assembly for their support and commitment to improving healthcare delivery across the country.
“The progress of the FMC Ikwuano Bill is a victory for the people of Ikwuano and indeed all residents of Abia Central,” Hon. Aguocha said.
“It signifies hope for better healthcare access, especially for our rural communities that have been neglected for too long. My resolve remains to ensure that this facility becomes a reality within the shortest possible time.”
Hon. Aguocha emphasized that beyond providing essential medical services, the proposed FMC will also serve as a major catalyst for economic growth in the area.
“The Federal Medical Centre, when completed, will not only save lives but will also create jobs for medical and non-medical professionals alike,” he noted.
“Pharmacies, hotels, transporters, and other local businesses will experience a new wave of growth. This is about building both the health and the economy of our people.”
To ensure the success of the project, Hon. Aguocha revealed that discussions have been ongoing with key stakeholders in the Federal Ministry of Health and the Abia State Government, alongside preliminary site inspections and feasibility studies to determine the best possible location and design for the facility.
“We are leaving nothing to chance,” he stated. “Every detail, from location to infrastructure, from staffing to sustainability, is being carefully considered. The FMC Ikwuano will be built to modern standards, with a focus on efficiency, accessibility, and quality service delivery.”
The lawmaker, who has been widely recognized for his proactive representation and people-centered initiatives, reassured his constituents of his unwavering commitment to the project.
“I want to assure the good people of Ikwuano that I am personally invested in this cause,” Aguocha reaffirmed. “We will not rest until the FMC Ikwuano becomes operational and fully functional. This is a promise anchored on service, compassion, and responsibility.”
With the bill now heading for its third reading and final passage, optimism is growing among residents and stakeholders. The establishment of FMC Ikwuano is expected to transform the healthcare landscape of Abia State, bridging long-standing gaps in medical access and improving the quality of life for thousands of people in the state and beyond.
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