The Senate has passed a bill seeking to establish a Federal Medical Centre (FMC) in Gembu, Taraba State, marking a significant legislative victory for healthcare access in the North East.

The legislation, known as the Federal Medical Centres Act (Amendment) Bill, 2025, was passed during plenary on Wednesday. It is sponsored by Senator Haruna Manu, who represents Taraba Central Senatorial District.

The bill seeks to amend the Federal Medical Centres Act of 2022 to accommodate the creation of new centres across the country.

Senator Manu described the passage as a long-overdue breakthrough for the region, which has faced persistent challenges in accessing quality healthcare.

He noted that residents of Gembu and neighbouring communities are often compelled to travel long distances to Jalingo, Yola, Gombe, or even across the border into Cameroon for advanced medical treatment.

“This has placed a heavy financial burden on families and contributed to unnecessary deaths due to delays in receiving critical care,” the senator said, expressing optimism that the establishment of the centre would bring life-saving services closer to those in need.

The bill now awaits consideration by the House of Representatives. If passed, it will be transmitted to the President for assent.

Senator Manu commended his colleagues for their support, calling the development a vital step toward bridging healthcare disparities in underserved regions of the country.