General News

House proposes reforms to stop human organ sale in Nigeria

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1 week ago

November 12, 2025

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house of representatives speaker hon abbas tajudeen

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By Saint Mugaga

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, has said the National Assembly is considering far-reaching reforms in Nigeria’s healthcare sector that will help save the lives of young Nigerians who, out of desperation, sell their organs for a pittance without understanding the health implications.

Abbas stated this on Wednesday at a public hearing organised by the House Committee on Healthcare Services on seven health-related bills at the National Assembly Complex, Abuja.

Represented by the Deputy Chief Whip, Rep. Ibrahim Isiaka, he said the proposed laws would address gaps in the medical system, strengthen ethical standards, and ensure uniform regulation across healthcare practices in the country.

“There is no doubt that the passage of these bills will directly impact the healthcare sector of our economy and save the lives of innocent young people who in desperation sell their organs for pittance, without the benefit of medical advice on the future implications of their actions on their health,” Abbas said.

The Speaker, who commended the Chairman of the Committee, Hon. Amos Gwamna Magaji, and members for their diligence, said the bills were part of efforts to build a more accountable and ethically compliant healthcare system in line with the 10th House’s Legislative Agenda.

The bills under consideration include one seeking to establish a regulatory body for organ harvesting, transplantation, and donations; another to create the Nigeria Surrogacy Regulatory Commission for the monitoring and supervision of surrogacy arrangements; and a bill to amend the National Health Act of 2014 to provide for a National Quality Accreditation Commission and a Federal Tertiary Health Institutions Commission.

Others are a bill to establish the Chartered Institute of Medical Dialysis Studies; a bill to amend the National Primary Healthcare Development Agency Act to improve efficiency; a bill to provide for the retirement age of health workers; and another to amend the National Health Act to prohibit and penalise organ trafficking.

Abbas described the proposed laws as critical to improving professionalism, curbing unethical medical practices, and standardising procedures across Nigeria’s health institutions.

“In sum, we are here today to formalise those unregulated or loosely governed areas of medical practice in Nigeria that continue to mitigate against our wellbeing,” he said.

The Speaker said the House was determined to close gaps in medical regulation, especially in sensitive areas like organ transplantation and surrogacy, which have so far operated with limited oversight.

“It is important to establish ethical frameworks for organ donation and transplantation,” he said. “It is important to provide legal clarity for surrogacy arrangements, especially as it pertains to the commercial aspect of this sensitive venture.”

He also noted that the proposed laws would build capacity in dialysis services, enhance primary healthcare delivery, and address the country’s health workforce crisis, worsened by the emigration of professionals abroad.

Abbas said the new laws would help Nigeria reduce its dependence on foreign medical care and plug the estimated $2 billion spent annually on medical tourism.

“Money that could easily be saved or ploughed into the economy if we can develop a more resilient, more responsive health sector,” he said.

He explained that standardising healthcare practices and tightening regulations would not only reduce illegal activities such as organ trafficking but also save lives and boost productivity.

“By filling existing weaknesses in the sector, from lax regulations to poor standardization and eroding professionalism, these bills have the potential to reduce crime, save lives, and improve productivity while also strengthening the economy,” the Speaker said.

Abbas emphasised that the public hearing demonstrated the House’s commitment to participatory democracy and inclusive lawmaking, urging stakeholders to contribute meaningfully to the process.

“It is my expectation that you will give these discussions your best attention by deliberating freely and patriotically to enable us create the necessary framework that will promote best practices in healthcare delivery systems of our dear country,” he said.

He maintained that the reforms would ensure better oversight, protect public health, and align the country’s healthcare system with global standards.

“Collectively, these bills signal a major push for a more structured, more accountable and ethically compliant healthcare system in Nigeria,” he said. “They will effectively close the existing gaps in the administration of healthcare, and combat illegal practices that have been enabled by weak regulatory frameworks.”

Abbas added that strengthening the sector would not only save lives but also contribute to economic growth, noting that “a healthy nation is a wealthy nation.”

The Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Healthcare Services, Hon. Amos Gwamna Magaji, reaffirmed the committee’s commitment to transparent, inclusive, and people-centered lawmaking aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s healthcare system and ensuring equitable access to quality services.

Magaji stated this on Wednesday at a public hearing organised by the committee on seven health-related bills at the National Assembly Complex, Abuja.

He described the hearing as a vital democratic process through which citizens and stakeholders can actively shape legislation that affects the nation’s wellbeing.

“Public hearings such as this are not mere formalities; they are the lifeblood of democratic engagement,” he said. “They allow us to listen, learn, and legislate with clarity and compassion.”

The lawmaker, who represents Zangon Kataf/Jaba Federal Constituency of Kaduna State, said the committee is determined to ensure that every citizen has access to quality, affordable, and equitable health services.

He added that the committee’s work goes beyond lawmaking—it is about building trust, fostering participation, and producing policies that reflect the realities and aspirations of Nigerians.

“This event marks a significant step toward our collective effort of strengthening the healthcare system and ensuring that every citizen has access to quality, affordable, and equitable health services,” Magaji said.

The Committee Chairman urged participants at the hearing, including health professionals, civil society groups, community leaders, and other stakeholders, to share their insights freely and challenge lawmakers to improve the proposed legislation.

“I urge all participants, health professionals, civil society representatives, community leaders, and concerned citizens, to speak freely, share your insights, and challenge us to do better,” he said. “Your contributions today will help us craft legislations that are not only technically sound but also socially responsive.”

Magaji emphasised that collaboration and open dialogue are essential to creating effective, sustainable healthcare laws that address the sector’s challenges and support Nigeria’s march toward universal health coverage.

Expressing appreciation to all participants, Magaji said the committee would continue to uphold openness and accountability in its work.

“On behalf of the committee, I thank you for your presence, your passion, and your partnership,” he said. “Together, let us build a healthcare system that reflects the dignity, resilience, and aspirations of our people and ultimately achieve the goal of universal health coverage.”

Magaji reaffirmed that the outcome of the hearing would guide the committee in refining the bills to meet both national and global standards in healthcare governance.

“This committee remains committed to transparency and inclusive policymaking,” he added. “Your voices are indispensable as we review all seven proposed bills today.”

He pledged that the House would continue to champion reforms that make Nigeria’s healthcare system more efficient, ethical, and accessible to all citizens.

END

General News

Naira for crude probe: House threaten defaulting stakeholders with arrest warrant…Postpones investigations to Dec 2

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2 days ago

November 20, 2025

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By Saint Mugaga

The House of Representatives Ad-Hoc Committee on Implementation and Oversight of the Naira-for-Crude Oil Policy has issues a 7-day ultimatum to invited agencies to furnish it with requested documents on or before the 27th November 2025 or face Parliamentary sanctions.

Chairman of the committee, Hon. Boniface Emerengwa, who issued the threat on Thursday in Abuja after agencies invites for the investigation failed to show up and refused to submit relevant documents requested by the committee.

He announced that “The investigative hearing scheduled for today, 20th November 2025, has been adjourned due to the gross negligence and lack of seriousness displayed by relevant stakeholders”.

The chairman expressed dismay that “Despite ample notice, the majority of stakeholders failed to recognize the role of the legislative arm in working with the Executive for the effective implementation of the Policy, by their failure to submit their required documents within the stipulated timeframe.

“This dereliction of duty has not only undermined the integrity of the committee’s work but has also cast a shadow of unseriousness over a matter of national importance.

“The committee views this conduct as a blatant disregard for the legislative process and a disrespect to the Nigerian people whose interests we are mandated to protect. Let it be unequivocally stated: the committee is deeply disappointed”.

According to the chairman, “The failure to submit documents on time has impeded our ability to conduct proper vetting and due diligence, thereby frustrating the investigative process.
This committee was constituted to ensure transparency, accountability, and effective oversight of the Naira-for-Crude Oil Policy, a policy with far-reaching implications for our economy and national development.

He warned that “Any attempt to frustrate this process will be met with firm legislative consequences. In the spirit of magnanimity and in recognition of the gravity of this investigation, the committee has resolved to extend the deadline for document submission to 27th November 2025.

“This extension is a final opportunity for stakeholders to demonstrate their commitment to transparency and cooperation. Furthermore, the investigative hearing has been rescheduled to 2nd December 2025, 12:00 AM, Conference Room 440. This date is final and non-negotiable.

“Let it be known to all stakeholders that failure to comply with this extended deadline will attract severe sanctions. The committee will not hesitate to invoke its full legislative powers, including but not limited to: Issuance of summons and subpoenas, public naming and shaming of non-compliant entities, recommendation of sanctions to relevant regulatory and executive bodies and escalation to plenary for further disciplinary action

“This committee will not be made to appear unserious or ineffective due to the indifference of stakeholders. We are determined to carry out our mandate with diligence, and we expect full cooperation from all parties involved.

“Stakeholders are hereby advised to treat this matter with the seriousness it deserves. The Naira-for-Crude Oil Policy is not a peripheral issue it is central to our economic sovereignty and fiscal accountability. The Nigerian people are watching, and history will judge our actions.

“We urge all stakeholders to submit their documents by the new deadline and prepare to appear before the committee on the rescheduled hearing date. The time for excuses is over. The time for accountability is now”

General News

LGA chairman releases full list of 25 abducted Kebbi school girls

Published

2 days ago

November 20, 2025

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Chairman of Danko-Wasagu Local Government Area of Kebbi state, Hon. Hussaini Aliyu,

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By Aliyu Musa

The Chairman of Danko-Wasagu Local Government Area of Kebbi state, Hon. Hussaini Aliyu, has refuted the claim by US lawmaker Riley Moore alleging that the abduction of the Maga schoolgirls occurred in a Christian enclave.

In a statement, the Chairman stated that, all the abducted schoolgirls are Muslims and urged the lawmaker to desist from making unverifiable statements capable of dividing Nigeria along religious or ethnic lines at a time when government efforts are focused on rescuing the abducted girls.

The statement noted that, Zuru Emirate, under which the Maga community falls, had never experienced a religious crisis. He wondered why the US lawmaker chose to make comments that portray Nigeria in a negative light.

It’s also releases the names of the abducted girls as follows:

Senior Secondary School 2A

Fatima Sani Zimri
Hafsat Ibrahim
Nana Firdausi Jibril
Masauda Yakubu Romo

Senior Secondary School 2B

Hauwa Saleh
Hauwau Umar Imam

Senior Secondary School 3A & 3B

Salima Garba Umar
Salima Sani Zimri
Amina G. Umar
Rashida Muhammad Dingu
Saliha Umar
Aisha Usman
Jamila Iliyasu
Maryam Illiyasu
Najaatu Abdullahi
Zainab Kolo

Junior Secondary School 3A

Surraya Tukur
Hafsat Umar Yalmo
Maryam Usman
Amina Illiyasu
Ikilima Suleman

Junior Secondary School 2

Khadija Nazifi
Hauwa’u Iliyasu
Hauwa’u Lawali
Ummu Kulsum Abdulkarim

General News

Children are Nigeria’s future, says President Tinubu

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2 days ago

November 20, 2025

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By Saint Mugaga

President Bola Tinubu Thursday expressed his commitment to the development of children, saying they are the future of the nation.

He stated this at the launching and public presentation of a book titled “The Power of a Teenager: 50 Ways to Inspire Change”, written by Chairman of the Public Accounts Committee, House of Representatives, and Founder of the Children of Africa Leadership and Values Development Initiative (CALDEV), Rep. Bamidele Salam on Thursday.

Tinubu, who was represented by the Senior Special Assistant to the National Assembly, House of Representatives Liaison, Dr. Ibrahim Olanrewaju, commended Salam for his dedication to youth development.

“You may not fully understand the impact of what you are receiving now, but tomorrow you will see what. Hon. Bamidele Salam has done in your lives,” he said.

He urged all attendees to make a personal commitment to shaping the minds of young Nigerians, stressing that while Salam funded the initiative personally, the greater task lies in mentoring and guiding the nation’s youth.

Also speaking at the launch, Vice President Kashim Shettima described the launch as a clear demonstration of the potential of Nigerian children.

Represented by his Senior Special Assistant, Dr. Kingsley Uzoma, the vice president praised Salam for aligning his work with the administration’s vision for youth empowerment.

“This initiative speaks directly to the leaders of tomorrow,” he added, commending both the organisation and the children participating in the programme.

In his remarks, Chief of Staff to the President, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila also lauded Salam’s efforts.

“Nigerian children are the future of this nation. Even though they are young, we are looking to them to take this country to where it should be,” he said.

Gbajabiamila commended Salam for consistently producing the book annually, calling it a testament to leadership and commitment.

“Leadership may be inborn or thrust upon you, but there must be someone to guide you. That is what this book is doing—it provides the guidance our young people need,” he said, urging children to read and internalise its lessons.

Speaking at the event, Hon. Bamidele Salam shared the story of how CALDEV was founded in 2015 to fill a gap in Nigeria’s educational system.

Unlike in other countries, he said, leadership training is rarely embedded in the curriculum. Through CALDEV and its flagship National Children’s Leadership Conference, children gain practical exposure to leadership, public speaking, and community service.

Many past participants have gone on to start NGOs, run radio programmes, and lead campaigns addressing early marriage, child labour, and other social issues.

“This year, about 400 children are participating, and the impact has been phenomenal,” Salam said. He urged state governments to replicate the initiative at the state level to provide young people across Nigeria with intensive leadership training. Highlighting the large participation from Borno State, Salam said that properly trained and nurtured children could become agents of change, promoting peace, tolerance, education, and societal development.

Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, Hon. Kingsley Chinda, lauded the author for his dedication to youth development through the newly launched book.

Chinda expressed pride that a member of the House is actively shaping the future of Nigerian children.

“As members of the House of Representatives, we hold our heads high today that one of us is doing this. We are very, very proud, and we pray that this inspiration should flow through every other member of the House,” he said.

Chinda noted that the legacy of leaders and thinkers, is remembered not for wealth but for wisdom and the knowledge they left behind.

“When we see initiatives like this, these are the things worthy of celebration,” he said.

Member of the House from Borno State, Hon. Zainab Gimba, said,”We have come because we are celebrating not just a book today when they had an imagination behind it. I actually commend for shining a compassionate and bright lights of our teenagers.

“He has given our young people a voice that others will also step on the same foot, so that our teenagers will be empowered, not in this generation, but in future generations to come.”