BY JUMAI NWACHUKWU
IN a major step towards achieving equitable healthcare access for underserved communities, the Delta State Contributory Health Commission (DSCHC) has officially flagged-off the Indigent Enrollee Adoption Initiative (IEAI) in Ojobo, a riverine community in Burutu Local Government Area.
Speaking at the event, the Director-General and Chief Executive Officer, DSCHC, Dr. Isaac Akpoveta, represented by the Director Planning Research, Statistic and ICT, Dr. Emmanuel Akpofure addressed beneficiaries with a message of hope, inclusion, and government commitment to healthcare equity.
Describing the event as more than a ceremonial launch and a milestone, Dr. Akpoveta emphasized that the initiative demonstrated the Delta State Government’s dedication to breaking geographic barriers and ensuring healthcare reaches the doorsteps of its most vulnerable citizens. The M.O.R.E. Agenda of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, prioritizes meaningful health reforms for people in grassroots communities.
The highlight of the event was the enrollment of 182 indigent residents from various communities including Asaba, Warri, Ojobo, Tubegbe, and Torugbene, sponsored by Rt. Hon. Funkekeme Solomon. The sponsorship was praised as both a milestone achievement and a testament to the spirit of shared responsibility in leadership.
According to Dr. Akpoveta “The cost of enrolling one person is just N7,000 per year, yet the value is immeasurable, offering access to accredited healthcare services across Delta State.”
The IEAI aim was to provide health insurance coverage to citizens who were unable to afford it, with a focus on hard-to-reach and riverine communities often left behind by conventional healthcare systems. The initiative, described as a flagship program of the DSCHC, is quickly gaining momentum across the state’s 25 local government areas.
In recognizing the contributions of Rt. Hon. Funkekeme Solomon, the Commission described him as a public-spirited leader who has bridged the gap between policy and tangible impact.
The Director-General urged more leaders, organizations, and citizens to support the initiative and ensure that “geography does not determine who lives and who suffers.”
In his remarks, the Senior Policy Adviser to the Governor on Labour, Relations and SERVICOM, Rt. Hon. Funkekeme Solomon, represented by Oyakorukumor Solomon applauded the initiative, saying that the sponsor had promised to do MORE for his people.
Similarly, the Amanana- Owei of Ojobo Community, Cupson Ebipade expressed gratitude to the sponsor, urging more people to support the initiative for the benefit of their community.
