The Rivers State Contributory Health Protection Programme (RIVCHPP), the state’s health insurance agency, has celebrated its second anniversary, restating its resolve to widen health insurance coverage and improve health outcomes for residents.
RIVCHPP was established under Rivers State Law 3 of 2021 and became fully operational on February 3, 2024, following a directive from the Executive Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminialayi Fubara, GSSRS. Since its activation, the scheme has helped reduce healthcare costs for residents across the state.
In the last two years, thousands of people in Rivers State have been enrolled in the programme, with many already receiving quality medical care in health facilities across the 23 local government areas without making out-of-pocket payments at the point of service.
Speaking to mark the anniversary, the Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of RIVCHPP, Dr. Vetty Rolegherighan Agala, said Governor Fubara’s decision to operationalise the agency reflected leadership that places citizens’ wellbeing above bureaucratic delays.
Dr. Agala explained that turning the policy into action has produced tangible results, including lifesaving interventions. She noted that women are delivering babies safely and adults are receiving treatment for illnesses that would previously have forced families into debt or emotional distress.
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She added that within two years, RIVCHPP has grown into a dynamic and responsive system, with steady expansion in coverage, improved service delivery processes, and rising public confidence.
According to her, the agency plans to significantly increase enrollment, with a target of at least one million beneficiaries by 2026 as Rivers State advances toward Universal Health Coverage. She stressed that ensuring quality healthcare for all enrollees remains a key priority.
Dr. Agala attributed the progress recorded so far to the focused leadership of the Rivers State Ministry of Health under the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Adaeze Chidinma Oreh, whose reforms have strengthened health financing and service delivery in the state.
To commemorate the anniversary, RIVCHPP announced the free enrollment of pregnant women across all Primary Health Centres in the state under the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund (BHCPF).
The agency also disclosed that throughout February, couples enrolling under the RIVCARE plan will enjoy a promotional fee of ₦45,000 for two people, reduced from ₦50,000, to make healthcare more affordable for families.
Dr. Agala expressed gratitude to Governor Siminialayi Fubara, Deputy Governor Prof. Ngozi Mma Odu, and Commissioner for Health Dr. Adaeze Chidinma Oreh for their continued support and guidance.
