The Senate has passed a bill seeking the establishment of the Federal Oil and Gas Hospital in Benikrukru, Warri South-West Local Government Area of Delta State.
The passage followed the presentation of a report by the Senate Committee on Health, led by Senator Banigo Ipalibo Harry (PDP, Rivers), during plenary on Tuesday.
Presenting the report, Senator Harry explained that the proposed hospital, sponsored by Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas (APC, Delta South), is designed to provide critical medical services to oil and gas workers as well as host communities bearing the brunt of exploration activities.
She said the hospital would serve as a specialised centre for managing health hazards associated with oil production, including terminal diseases, cancers, and industrial injuries.
“The bill received overwhelming support from stakeholders during the public hearing,” she said, stressing that oil-producing communities and workers have long suffered from the health consequences of extractive activities.
According to the lawmaker, the lack of access to occupational health services has not only exposed workers and residents to avoidable health risks but has also contributed to growing discontent in the Niger Delta.
“This neglect has been a catalyst for agitations and disruptions in the region, which continue to undermine national development,” Senator Harry said.
She noted that Delta State remains one of the highest producers of crude oil in the country, hosting several multinational oil firms and servicing contractors.
“Locating this hospital in Benikrukru will strategically bridge a critical gap in the healthcare infrastructure for one of Nigeria’s most industrialised but health-burdened regions,” she added.
Senator Harry explained that the facility would provide 24-hour emergency services, occupational health treatment, and specialised care for oil-related ailments. It will also help reduce patient evacuation delays and improve rapid response to medical emergencies in isolated communities.
“The passage of this bill is not just about healthcare; it is about equity, justice, and national stability,” she declared, urging the Senate to support the bill in the interest of public health and national unity.
Following a clause-by-clause consideration of the bill, the Senate unanimously passed it.
With this development, the bill will be transmitted to the House of Representatives for concurrence before it is forwarded to the President for assent.