The Lagos State House of Assembly on Thursday advanced a bill seeking the establishment of the Lagos State University of Medicine and Health Sciences, as the proposed legislation scaled through second reading.

The bill, read by the Clerk of the House, Mr. Olalekan Onafeko, sparked robust debate among lawmakers, who described the initiative as a timely intervention to address the shortage of medical professionals in the state.

Speaking in support of the bill, Hon. Nureni Akinsanya said the institution would create more admission opportunities for students, provide employment for residents, and improve the training of medical doctors.

Hon. Gbolahan Yishawu (Eti-Osa II) clarified that although the bill was presented as an executive proposal, it was an initiative of the Assembly under the leadership of Speaker Mudashiru Obasa, following oversight activities carried out by relevant committees.

Also contributing, Hon. Femi Saheed lamented the scarcity of doctors in Lagos but expressed confidence that the new university would help bridge manpower gaps, boost research output, and generate revenue for the state.

In his remarks, Hon. Jubril Abdulkareem (Agege II) urged his colleagues to support the bill, stressing its long-term benefits to Lagos residents.

Ruling on the debate, Speaker Obasa committed the bill to the joint Committees on Health and Education with a directive to report back within three weeks.

According to the draft legislation, Statute 19 of the proposed law provides for the establishment of Centres for Research and Development within the university to drive innovation and strengthen academic and professional functions.