The Delta State Contributory Health Commission (DSCHC) has announced its preparedness to commence the registration of 10,000 widows under the Widows Welfare Scheme into the State’s health insurance programme.
The Director General of DSCHC, Dr. Isaac Akpoveta, made this known on Wednesday during a courtesy visit by the Executive Assistant to the Governor on Social Investment and Coordinator of the Widows Welfare Scheme, Chief Isioma Okonta, to the Commission’s headquarters in Asaba.
Dr. Akpoveta disclosed that the registration exercise will be concluded within two weeks, with beneficiaries expected to begin accessing healthcare services by September 2025.
He explained that the initiative is targeted at ensuring vulnerable groups, particularly widows, enjoy affordable and quality healthcare.
“The Social Health Insurance Scheme was established to cater for vulnerable groups in society, and widows are among the most critical.
“Access to healthcare should not be a privilege but a right, especially for those who need it the most,” the DG stated.
He commended Governor Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori for his unwavering support and commitment to the well-being of the poor and vulnerable, and praised Chief Okonta for his consistent efforts in advancing social programmes that impact lives across Delta State.
In his remarks, Chief Okonta lauded the Commission’s efficiency and readiness to implement the Governor’s directive, describing the inclusion of widows in the scheme as a compassionate and timely intervention.
“His Excellency has shown that beyond stipends, healthcare remains the most critical support widows need. I am confident in the Commission’s capacity to deliver a seamless and effective registration exercise,” Okonta said.
The visit also featured the presentation of the DSCHC Scorecard, which highlighted the Commission’s achievements in broadening access to healthcare across the state.
The widows’ registration exercise marks a significant milestone in the government’s efforts to extend healthcare coverage to disadvantaged groups, reaffirming Delta State’s commitment to inclusive and people-centered health insurance.
