Despite the ongoing emergency rule in Rivers State, residents continue to benefit from robust healthcare programs, with the state government reaffirming its commitment to strengthening the health system and ensuring access to quality services for all.
On Monday, the Rivers State Contributory Health Protection Programme (RIVCHPP), in collaboration with the Association of Public Health Physicians of Nigeria (APHPN) and Health Stream Medicare, joined the global community in commemorating World Health Day 2025 at the Model Primary Health Centre in Ozuoba.
Speaking on this year’s theme, “Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures: The Role of Health Insurance”, Acting Executive Secretary of RIVCHPP, Dr. Vetty Agala, highlighted the importance of health insurance in improving maternal and child health outcomes. Citing World Health Organization statistics, she revealed that nearly 800 women die daily around the world due to complications in childbirth.
“Health insurance ensures availability and easy access to healthcare services, improves utilization, and reduces the financial burden during emergencies,” Dr. Agala stated.
She commended the Rivers State Government for empowering RIVCHPP to operate as a functional health insurance agency in the state.
Dr. Agala also disclosed that over 87,000 residents across all 23 local government areas have been enrolled in the scheme and currently enjoy free access to quality healthcare services without any payments at the point of care.
She emphasised that the current state of emergency has not disrupted the agency’s operations or enrollees’ access to services.
“We will continue to ensure that more residents, particularly pregnant women and children under five, enjoy free and quality healthcare through enrolment in RIVCHPP.”
Also speaking at the event, Dr. Comfort Mekele Igwe, Permanent Secretary, Rivers State Ministry of Health, reiterated the government’s resolve to make healthcare a right and not a privilege.
“Health is not just about hospitals or medicines; it’s about the food we eat, the water we drink, our environment, and the information we access. “Inequalities in healthcare access, underfunded systems, and the rising burden of non-communicable diseases threaten millions. Rivers State is committed to reversing this trend through a strong and inclusive health system.”
She stressed that health is a fundamental human right, and the state will continue working toward universal healthcare coverage.
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On his part, Dr. Kene Tarfaa, National President Association of Public Health Physicians of Nigeria (APHPN), Rivers State Branch, described maternal and child health as a critical indicator of a nation’s well-being.
He praised RIVCHPP for bringing affordable and quality healthcare closer to the people and pledged the association’s continued commitment to community health engagement and strengthening primary healthcare nationwide.
Dr. Aloni Adolphus Alali, Chairman of APHPN in Rivers State, said the event was also used to sensitise the community on birth preparedness, newborn safety, and maternal health. He thanked all partners involved in making the day a success and noted that RIVCHPP enrolled new members and engaged existing enrollees during the event.
“We must prioritise the wellbeing of mothers and children in our national development agenda, everyday, women face life-threatening challenges during childbirth. It is time for action. We will continue to work with communities and do our part.”
The event was attended by dignitaries, including Professor Giwa Abdulganiyu, WHO Coordinator in Rivers State; Dr. Awuri Luke, Head of the Department of Community Medicine at Rivers State University Teaching Hospital and Rivers State University; and other stakeholders in the health sector.
