BY JUMAI NWACHUKWU
The Director-General of the Delta State Contributory Health Commission (DSCHC), Dr. Isaac Akpoveta has called on traditional rulers to play an active role in promoting health insurance for underprivileged members of their communities.
He tasked them to encourage well-meaning individuals and philanthropists to adopt and purchase health insurance plans for the needy, particularly those in rural and grassroots areas, to ensure access to affordable healthcare services.
Dr. Akpoveta made this appeal during a courtesy visit by His Royal Majesty, the Obi of Ubulu-Uno, Dr. Henry Kikachukwu, and other members of his council to the commission’s headquarters in Asaba, yesterday.
In his remarks, Dr. Akpoveta emphasized the critical role traditional rulers play in fostering community well-being and advocating for the vulnerable.
He noted that their influence and reach within communities could help bridge the gap in healthcare accessibility by encouraging community leaders and wealthy individuals to sponsor health insurance for those who cannot afford it.
“The health and well-being of the grassroots population are essential to the progress of our state and our royal fathers are key stakeholders in this regard, and we rely on their support to ensure that no one is left behind when it comes to access to quality healthcare.”, he said.
Dr. Akpoveta reaffirmed Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s dedication to the healthcare sector, emphasizing the commitment to providing all Deltans with access to affordable healthcare services at a cost as low as N7,000.
He mentioned that the initiative was aimed at improving the lives of those who might otherwise be unable to afford quality healthcare in the state.
The royal father, Dr. Henry Kikachukwu in his remarks, commended the efforts of the DSCHC in expanding access to healthcare.
He pledged his support in sensitizing his communities on the importance of health insurance and mobilizing resources to assist the needy.
The monarch, who also doubles as the second Vice Chairman of the Delta State Traditional Council, said that the purpose of the visit was to familiarize themselves with the commission and to commend their efforts in providing universal health coverage for the needy across the three senatorial districts.
“We recognize that health is wealth, and as custodians of our people’s heritage, we will do our part to promote initiatives that improve their welfare,” he affirmed.
The Obi assured the commission of his commitment to ensuring that his people embrace the government’s initiative to provide access to quality healthcare services.
In his vote of thanks, the President-General of the Unified Ubulu-Unor Development Association, Prof. Jiff Mokobia, commended the commission for their efforts in making the Indigent Enrollee Adoption Initiative (IEAI) accessible to all Deltans.
Prof. Mokobia also assured the Director-General that Ubulu-Unor would actively participate in the program to bring lasting benefits and joy to the community.
