The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) has launched the enrollment of 10,000 people in Rivers west senatorial district under the “Bringing Healthcare Home” initiative.
The programme, sponsored by Sen. Ipalibo Banigo aims to expand access to quality healthcare in the region and was flagged off in Ahoada East, Rivers State.
According to a statement signed by NHIA’s assistant director of media, Mr. Emmanuel Ononokpono the initiative seeks to reduce the high rate of out-of-pocket healthcare costs in Nigeria, where 70 per cent of the population bears the burden without financial support.
Ononokpono quoted the NHIA’s director-general, Dr. Kelechi Ohiri who highlighted health insurance as a crucial tool in tackling health-related poverty and inequality. “Affordable healthcare access is essential for maintaining human dignity,” he stated.
Banigo, who is also chair of the Senate Committee on Health, expressed her commitment to improving healthcare access for her constituents. At the event, over 30 beneficiaries received health insurance identity cards, marking the start of their coverage.
The initiative spans eight local government areas in Rivers West and underscores the role of health insurance in addressing social inequalities and improving access, particularly for vulnerable communities.
