Abuja, Oct. 16, 2024 (TheGavel) — The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) has officially launched an enrollment initiative aimed at providing health insurance coverage to 10,000 individuals in the Rivers West Senatorial District. This initiative, part of the “Bringing Healthcare Home” program, is designed to enhance access to quality healthcare in the region.
Dr. Kelechi Ohiri, Director-General of NHIA, announced the commencement of the enrollment in a statement released by Emmanuel Ononokpono, Assistant Director of Media, on Wednesday in Abuja. The program is sponsored by Senator Ipalibo Banigo, Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health, and was inaugurated in the Ahoada East Local Government Area of Rivers State.
Ohiri highlighted the significance of health insurance in combating health-related poverty and inequality, stating, “Access to affordable healthcare is essential for maintaining human dignity.” He emphasized that the initiative aims to reduce the alarming rate of out-of-pocket healthcare expenses in Nigeria, where approximately 70 percent of the population currently bears healthcare costs without financial support.
During the program’s flag-off, over 30 beneficiaries received their health insurance identity cards, marking the start of their coverage under this initiative, which will extend across eight Local Government Areas in Rivers West.
Senator Ipalibo Banigo reiterated her commitment to improving healthcare access for her constituents, saying, “This initiative underscores the role of health insurance in addressing social inequalities and improving healthcare access, particularly for vulnerable communities.”
The NHIA’s efforts reflect a broader strategy to ensure that more Nigerians can benefit from essential health services without the burden of crippling costs.(NAN)
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