In a bold move aimed at restoring public confidence in Nigeria’s education and healthcare sectors, Hon. Amobi Godwin Ogah, representing Isuikwuato/Umunneochi Federal Constituency of Abia State, has introduced a legislative bill at the House of Representatives seeking to prohibit public officials and their families from accessing private educational and medical services.
The proposed legislation, titled “Private Institutions and Health Care Services (Prohibition) Bill, 2025,” targets all public servants — including elected officials, political appointees, and civil servants across federal, state, and local government levels — restricting them and their immediate family members from patronizing private schools and hospitals within or outside Nigeria.
The bill covers a wide range of services, including all levels of education (from nursery to university) and healthcare services (from diagnosis to surgery and treatment).
Whistleblower Involvement and Penalties
To ensure compliance, the bill encourages independent whistleblowers to report violations to relevant authorities. Offenders will face significant penalties:
- Public Servants: ₦500,000 fine per offense, minimum of three months imprisonment, and possible dismissal.
- Civil Servants: Fines ranging from ₦200,000 to ₦300,000, possible dismissal, and at least two months in correctional custody.
- Private Healthcare Providers (under NHIS): Fines up to ₦1 million per offense, license suspension or cancellation, and possible jail terms.
Conditions for Exemption
The bill outlines specific situations under which exemptions may apply:
- When a particular course of study or medical service is not available in public institutions.
- If a family member was already receiving treatment or enrolled in a private institution abroad before the official’s appointment or before the law comes into effect.
- When a waiver is granted by the Minister of Education or Health.
A 12-month grace period will be provided following presidential assent to allow for full implementation.
Restoring Public Confidence
In his explanatory note, Hon. Ogah underscored the importance of aligning public officials with the realities of everyday Nigerians.
“This bill seeks to eliminate the double standards that enable public officials to sidestep the very systems they are meant to develop. If they must fix the system, they must first use it,” he said.
The proposal is expected to spark significant debate within the National Assembly and among key stakeholders in the education and health sectors, as it challenges the entrenched norms of governance and accountability in Nigeria.
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