Lawmakers at the House of Representatives
House of Representatives has introduced a bill aimed at prohibiting public and civil servants from patronizing private schools and healthcare facilities.
The proposed legislation, sponsored by Rep. Amobi Ogah, seeks to promote the use of public institutions and restore confidence in government-owned facilities.
The bill’s objective is to eliminate conflicts of interest, build public trust, and uphold the integrity of public institutions.
Ogah emphasized that the continued patronage of private schools and hospitals has led to the neglect and deterioration of public institutions, resulting in crumbling infrastructure and falling standards.
Ogah highlighted the economic implications of Nigerians’ preference for private institutions and foreign medical treatment.
He cited government spending, noting that while Nigeria allocated N1.33 trillion to healthcare in the 2024 budget, the country spent an estimated N1.6 trillion on medical treatment abroad annually.
He also stated that Nigerians spent at least 29.29 billion dollars on overseas medical expenses during the late former President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration.
Ogah called on the Nigerian public, particularly the media, to support the bill and foster a new national consciousness that prioritizes local institutions.
He emphasized that the bill aims to end both medical and educational tourism for public and civil servants and restore confidence in government-owned institutions to uplift Nigeria’s global image.
