The Kogi State House of Assembly has passed two bills seeking to expand agricultural education and remove financial barriers to maternal and neonatal healthcare across the state.
The bills are the Kogi State College of Agriculture, Ochaja-Egume Establishment Bill, 2026 and the Kogi State Free Maternal and Neonatal Healthcare Services Bill, 2025.
The bills were passed after clause-by-clause consideration and adoption by the Committee of the Whole, followed by their third and final readings.
Speaking after the passage, the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Aliyu Umar Yusuf, said the proposed College of Agriculture would provide residents with opportunities to acquire agricultural knowledge and skills within the state.
Yusuf said agricultural education had historically contributed to the development of Kogi State, adding that the establishment of the college would support the state’s efforts to diversify its economy through agriculture.
According to him, a properly funded College of Agriculture could boost agricultural production, create employment opportunities, generate revenue and contribute to the state’s economic development.
On the Free Maternal and Neonatal Healthcare Services Bill, the Speaker said the legislation was aimed at ensuring that pregnant women and newborns receive healthcare services at government-owned facilities without financial barriers.
He expressed concern that some women had been unable to access treatment at government hospitals because they could not afford basic medical expenses.
Yusuf said no pregnant woman or newborn should be denied essential healthcare because of lack of funds.
He added that the legislation would help citizens benefit from government intervention in the healthcare sector and improve access to maternal and neonatal services across the state.
The Speaker appealed to the Executive to give assent to the bills, expressing hope that their implementation would benefit women, children and the wider population.
Yusuf commended members of the House for their contributions, patience and commitment during debates and public hearings on the legislation.
