The House of Representatives is considering a legislative move that would compel all public and civil servants to use government-owned schools and hospitals for themselves and their dependents, an effort designed to revitalise Nigeria’s struggling education and healthcare sectors.
The bill, sponsored by Hon. Amobi Ogah, who represents Isuikwuato/Umunneochi Federal Constituency of Abia State, was brought forward during Tuesday’s plenary session.
Addressing the press, Ogah said the proposed law is a step toward accountability and public sector reform.
“This bill represents a watershed moment for our country. It’s imperative that we eliminate conflicting interests and compel public officials to actively engage in revamping the very institutions they oversee, instead of fleeing to private alternatives,” he said.
Ogah cited Nigeria’s founding fathers—Sir Ahmadu Bello, Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, and Sir Tafawa Balewa—who all attended public or mission schools and still became iconic leaders.
He argued that the current reliance on private schools and hospitals by those in power has contributed to the decline of public institutions.
He also criticised the rising trend of educational and medical tourism, which he said continues to drain Nigeria’s resources.
Citing official data, Ogah revealed that Nigerians spent at least \$29.29 billion on foreign medical care during the eight-year tenure of the late President Muhammadu Buhari.
“In 2023 alone, \$218.87 million was spent on foreign education, while the first quarter of 2024 recorded an additional \$38.17 million outflow for the same purpose.
“Despite allocating N1.34 trillion to the health sector in the 2024 budget, Nigerians still channel over \$1 billion abroad annually for healthcare. This is unsustainable.
“If we could remove the fuel subsidy, then we must equally find the courage to reform our public institutions,” he added.
He stressed that the disconnect between government officials and the public systems they manage is one of the key drivers of institutional failure and public distrust.
“This bill is more than just legislation; it’s a call to national rebirth. We must put an end to the culture of medical and educational tourism among public servants and reinvest in what we have.”
The lawmaker appealed to journalists, civil society organisations, and ordinary Nigerians to rally behind the initiative. He also launched a public awareness campaign using hashtags such as #PromoteOurSchoolsAndHealthcareServices and #PrivateInstitutionsAndHealthcareServicesProhibitionBill2025.
“I’m appealing to all well-meaning Nigerians to back this transformative bill. Together, we can restore the people’s trust and build a future where our children can believe in the Nigerian system,” he concluded.
