The Lagos State House of Assembly has advanced efforts to upgrade the Lagos State University College of Medicine (LASUCOM) into a specialized University of Medicine, aimed at producing world-class healthcare professionals for the state and Nigeria at large.
The move is part of measures to address the growing brain drain in the health sector and respond to emerging challenges in healthcare delivery.
Speaking at a one-day public hearing on the University of Medicine and Health Science Bill, 2024, held on Wednesday, Co-Chairman of the Joint Committee on Education (Tertiary Institutions) and Health Services & Primary Healthcare, Hon. Ajani Owolabi, said the proposed law seeks to train medical and health professionals, promote cutting-edge research, and expand access to higher education in health sciences.
According to Owolabi, the bill will provide for a robust governance system, including a Governing Council, Senate, Congregation, and Convocation, with the Governor of Lagos State designated as Visitor to the university to ensure accountability and alignment with state priorities.
He added that the bill also seeks to establish the University of Medicine and Health Science as an independent institution, separating LASUCOM from Lagos State University.
“In addition, the University will award degrees and distinctions in medicine and allied health fields under a merit-driven admission policy, while ensuring a smooth transition for current students and staff of LASUCOM, protecting their rights and academic progression,” he stated.
Giving an overview of the bill, Deputy Majority Leader Hon. Adedamola Kasunmu explained that the legislation, which contains 54 sections in five parts, aims to establish a specialized university of medicine with the vision of training healthcare workers who will strengthen the state’s health system and serve beyond its borders.
In her remarks, Speaker Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, represented by Deputy Speaker Hon. Mrs. Mojisola Meranda, noted that Nigeria currently has only two specialized universities of medicine, both privately owned.
“The bill seeks to standardize the teaching of modern medicine. This House will not pass a law without actively seeking inputs from critical stakeholders and Lagosians at large,” she said.
Also speaking, Commissioner for Tertiary Institutions Mr. Tolani Sule described the initiative as “laying the foundation for a transformative institution that will define how we train, empower, and deploy medical and health professionals not only for Lagos State but for Nigeria and the wider world.”
He stressed that the proposed university represents a strategic upgrade of LASUCOM, one of the state’s proudest academic institutions.
“This university will significantly expand our capacity to train not only doctors but also nurses, pharmacists, physiotherapists, biomedical scientists and other essential health professionals critical to sustaining our health system,” Sule added. “It will also enhance our research capabilities, attract international collaborations, and strengthen the pipeline of skilled health workers.”
