The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) has commenced the enrollment of 10,000 residents in Rivers West Senatorial District under the Bringing Healthcare Home initiative. The program, launched in Ahoada East Local Government Area, aims to expand access to quality healthcare in the region.
According to NHIA Director-General, Kelechi Ohiri, health insurance is a vital tool for tackling health-related poverty and inequality. “The initiative seeks to reduce the high rate of out-of-pocket healthcare expenses in Nigeria, where 70% of the population currently bears the burden of healthcare costs without financial support,” Ohiri explained, emphasizing that affordable healthcare is essential for preserving human dignity.
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The program is sponsored by Ipalibo Banigo, Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health, who reaffirmed her commitment to improving healthcare access for her constituents. Banigo highlighted the initiative’s focus on addressing social inequalities, particularly for vulnerable communities, through the provision of health insurance.
The Bringing Healthcare Home initiative reflects a growing effort to mitigate financial barriers to healthcare and provide more equitable access to essential services for people in Rivers State.