Edo Deputy Governor, Hon. Dennis Idahosa, has reaffirmed his commitment to improving healthcare delivery with the rollout of a National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) programme expected to provide health insurance coverage for about 4,000 residents of Ovia South-West and Ovia North-East Local Government Areas.

This is contained in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Friday Aghedo and made available to newsmen in Benin on Thursday.

He said the initiative, facilitated by Idahosa during his tenure as the member representing Ovia Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, has already enrolled more than 2,000 beneficiaries, while another batch is expected to bring the total number to 4,000.

The NHIA cards were presented to the deputy governor and the member representing Ovia Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Omosede Gabriella Igbinedion, by the Edo State Coordinator of NHIA, Dr Theodore Ehannire.

Speaking during the presentation in Benin, Idahosa said the programme was designed to reduce the financial burden of healthcare on residents by minimising out-of-pocket medical expenses and expanding access to quality healthcare services.

He said the initiative underscored his commitment to the welfare of the people, adding that responsive leadership should prioritise investments in human capital and public health alongside physical infrastructure.

“This intervention is aimed at ensuring that our people have access to quality healthcare without the financial burden that often prevents many from seeking timely medical attention,” he said.

Earlier, Ehannire disclosed that more than 2,000 beneficiaries had been successfully enrolled under the scheme and that their health insurance cards had been fully activated for use at accredited hospitals across the state.

He said all medical expenses covered under the programme had already been paid, enabling beneficiaries to receive healthcare services without making direct payments at the point of service.

According to him, beneficiaries will have access to medical consultations, treatment, minor surgical procedures and maternal healthcare services, including safe delivery for pregnant women.

Ehannire commended the deputy governor for prioritising the health and well-being of the people, noting that the programme would significantly improve access to quality healthcare in the benefiting communities.

Also speaking, the member representing Ovia Federal Constituency, Hon Omosede Gabriella Igbinedion described the initiative as a people-oriented intervention that would have a lasting impact on the lives of constituents.

She said good governance should not be measured only by physical infrastructure but also by programmes that directly improve the quality of life of the people.

“There is no price that can be placed on health because health is wealth and life itself,” she said.

She added that the initiative would reduce self-medication, improve access to maternal and child healthcare, and enhance the overall well-being of residents.

The distribution of the NHIA cards is expected to commence shortly, providing thousands of beneficiaries with access to affordable healthcare services at accredited medical facilities across Edo State.

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