Reps Move to Ban Public Officials from Using Private Schools, Hospitals

The House of Representatives has introduced a bill aimed at prohibiting public and civil servants, including their immediate family members, from patronising private schools and healthcare facilities. Sponsored by Rep. Amobi Ogah (LP–Abia), the bill was presented for first reading during Tuesday’s plenary session.

Ogah said the legislation was a historic step to eliminate conflicts of interest, build public trust, and uphold the integrity of government institutions. Citing Nigeria’s founding leaders who attended government schools, he criticised today’s officials for preferring private institutions, which he said harms national development.

Ogah also noted that while Nigeria allocated N1.33 trillion to healthcare in 2024, over $1 billion is spent annually on medical treatment abroad. Nigerians also spent millions on foreign education in 2023 and early 2024. Ogah stressed the need to reform public service behaviour and restore confidence in public schools and hospitals, which he said have deteriorated due to neglect.