FIC Report (Benue State) – The Benue State House of Assembly on Thursday, October 2, 2025, considered the second reading of House Bill 8: A Bill for a Law to Amend the Benue State School of Health Technology, Agasha Law, 2012.
Leading the debate, Hon. Elias Audu, member representing Gwer-East State Constituency, explained that the bill seeks to upgrade the School of Health Technology, Agasha, into a College in order to strengthen its capacity and improve health manpower development in the state.
According to Hon. Audu, the amendment, if passed, will:
- Standardize and Ensure Accreditation – Align the institution with the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) and professional councils, guaranteeing national credibility, quality training, and equal recognition with similar institutions.
- Expand Training Scope – Empower the College to run National Diploma (ND) and Higher National Diploma (HND) programmes, and collaborate with universities for degree opportunities. Graduates will also qualify for the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC).
- Enhance Admission Standards – Secure recognition by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), thereby improving visibility and streamlining admission processes.
- Broaden Career and Professional Recognition – Open wider career opportunities, ensure employer recognition, and create access to advanced studies both within and outside Nigeria.
- Promote Institutional Growth and Autonomy – Establish governing council structures, financial independence, and access to funding interventions such as TETFund to boost infrastructure, staff training, and research.
He emphasized that the proposed amendment is not merely a change of name but a strategic investment in the future of healthcare delivery in Benue State.
The motion was seconded by Rt. Hon. William Ortyom, member representing Agasha State Constituency.
In his remarks, the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Berger Alfred Emberga, noted that upgrading the institution would greatly enhance the development of the state’s health sector. He subsequently directed the Clerk of the House, Mr. Ben Mela, to read the bill for the second time.
Signed
VERONICA AZEMBA
For:Head of Center
Federal Information Center, Makurdi
