In a remarkable step toward improving healthcare access in riverine communities, 150 residents of Naifoh Island, Ogbe Ijoh in Warri South West Local Government Area, have been enrolled into the Delta State Contributory Health Scheme (DSCHC) through the sponsorship of Light Up The Creeks Foundation, a charitable organisation dedicated to supporting vulnerable populations.
This initiative is in direct response to the Indigent Enrollee Adoption Initiative of the Delta State Contributory Health Commission, which seeks to eliminate barriers to quality healthcare and promote inclusivity across the state.
Foundation Answers Call for Healthcare Support
The Director General and CEO of the DSCHC, Dr. Isaac Akpoveta, praised Chief Favour Izuokumor, Chairman of Light Up The Creeks Foundation, for prioritizing the health needs of Naifoh Island residents.
Represented by Mr. Emmanuel Akpofure, Director of Planning, Research, Statistics, and ICT at the Commission, Dr. Akpoveta reiterated the government’s commitment under Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s MORE Agenda to provide free healthcare for pregnant women and children under five, and subsidized care for those in both formal and informal sectors.
He encouraged other well-meaning individuals and organizations to follow suit by sponsoring health insurance for vulnerable citizens at the government-subsidized rate of ₦7,000 per person annually.
Foundation Commits to Supporting the Creeks
Mrs. Agbajor Jolomi Pajiah and Pastor Jeremiah Samson, key representatives of Light Up The Creeks Foundation, highlighted the foundation’s dedication to empowering the people of the creeks, stating that sponsoring health insurance for 150 individuals would provide them with free access to healthcare for an entire year.
They expressed gratitude to Governor Oborevwori for his strides in various sectors, especially healthcare, and praised the DSCHC for creating a platform to support indigent residents.
NHIA Endorses Health Insurance as Lifeline
The State Coordinator of the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), Mr. Sunday Ojoneh, represented by Mr. Samuel Uzoka, emphasized the importance of health insurance in tackling healthcare challenges linked to poverty.
He noted that insurance prevents excessive out-of-pocket spending and promotes healthier communities.
Gratitude from Beneficiaries and Recognition for Sponsors
Beneficiaries expressed joy and appreciation to both the state government and their sponsor, Chief Favour Izuokumor, for the life-changing support.
As part of the event’s highlight, Mr. Izuokumor was honored with a plaque and recognized as a Health Insurance Ambassador for his commitment to expanding healthcare access.
The event concluded with the registration of beneficiaries into the scheme and the presentation of health cards, symbolizing a new chapter of accessible healthcare for Naifoh Island residents.
