New legislation aims to enhance patient safety, professional standards, and imaging practice regulation across Nigeria.
The Nigerian Senate has officially adopted a landmark bill sponsored by Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, representing Abia North, to establish a rigorous regulatory framework for medical imaging professionals nationwide. Plenary proceedings on Tuesday were presided over by Senate President Godswill Akpabio following a short legislative break.
The proposed legislation, officially designated as the Medical X-Ray and Imaging Practitioners Council (Establishment) Bill, 2026 (SB 1070), was previously read for the first time by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele. Its primary objective is to safeguard public health against the risks associated with ionising radiation exposure.
By setting strict standards for training and professional conduct, the bill ensures that only qualified personnel perform diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, according to information published by The Sun Nigeria.
Scope of the Medical X-Ray and Imaging Council
The newly proposed regulatory body will oversee a broad spectrum of specialists across the country. Covered professionals include medical X-ray technicians, ultrasound sonographers, radiotherapy technologists, and MRI technologists.
Additional specialists managed by the council will comprise computed tomography technologists, cardiovascular technologists, nuclear medicine experts, and renal therapy technicians, ensuring comprehensive sector oversight.
Public Health and Ionising Radiation Safety
A major focus of the legislation is promoting the safe application of medical imaging technologies. While X-rays and CT scans are essential for disease management, inappropriate exposure to ionising radiation poses severe health risks.
The regulatory framework aims to strengthen professional competence and accountability among operators. Furthermore, it improves diagnostic reliability and protects both patients and healthcare workers in medical facilities.
Regulatory Powers and Institutional Accreditation
The proposed council will possess extensive administrative and regulatory powers to govern the profession. Key responsibilities include determining entry standards, maintaining practitioner registers, and conducting professional examinations.
Additional functions involve accrediting training institutions, inspecting diagnostic clinics, assessing foreign-trained graduates, and establishing mandatory continuing professional education programs.
Legislative Track Record of Senator Orji Uzor Kalu
The imaging practitioners bill adds to more than fifty legislative measures sponsored by Senator Kalu since entering the Senate in 2019. During his first term from 2019 to 2023, he successfully sponsored twenty-five distinct bills.
His diverse legislative agenda includes the Electric Vehicle Transition Bill, the Social Welfare Service Bill, and constitutional proposals expanding state railway powers to boost regional development.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Medical X-Ray and Imaging Practitioners Council Bill?
It is a legislative bill sponsored by Senator Orji Uzor Kalu in the Nigerian Senate to regulate medical imaging practice, enhance patient safety, and control ionising radiation risks.
Who does the new medical imaging bill cover?
The bill covers various specialists including X-ray technicians, sonographers, MRI technologists, CT technologists, radiotherapy experts, and nuclear medicine technologists.
Why is regulating ionising radiation important in Nigeria?
Inappropriate exposure to ionising radiation through X-rays and CT scans poses health risks, making strict professional standards and equipment regulation vital for public safety.
What powers will the new regulatory council have?
The council will register practitioners, accredit training institutions, inspect diagnostic clinics, conduct professional exams, and enforce codes of conduct.
