Access to quality healthcare is a major challenge for many rural communities in Nigeria, but in Akwa Ibom State, Governor Umo Eno is changing that narrative. Through the Akwa Ibom State Health Insurance Agency (AKSHIA), the governor is extending affordable and reliable health services to some of the most remote parts of the state.
The health insurance scheme, a social security initiative, ensures that residents can access essential medical care by paying a small contribution at regular intervals. This approach not only promotes inclusivity but also strengthens the healthcare delivery system at the grassroots level.
Reaching the Unreached
Recently, the people of Amadaka, Elele, and Kampa—peaceful communities situated along the Atlantic Ocean tributary in Eastern Obolo Local Government Area—became the latest beneficiaries of the scheme. Residents turned out in large numbers at the Primary Healthcare Centre in Amadaka to register under the facility-based enrollment exercise.
Since its launch last year, the health insurance scheme has been a central part of the governor’s strategy to reform the state’s healthcare sector. The initiative emerged as a response to longstanding issues such as the poor condition of health facilities, excessive pressure on government-owned hospitals, and limited healthcare funding amid rising costs.
Declaring a State of Emergency in Health
Governor Umo Eno has previously declared a state of emergency in the health sector, signaling his administration’s commitment to rebuilding the system within a year. Key actions include the recruitment of over 2,000 new health workers, ongoing renovation of healthcare facilities, and the recall of retired medical professionals who are willing to continue serving.
Additionally, the state has taken a firm stand against the misuse of hospital environments for social media content creation, which has at times violated patients’ rights and disrupted hospital activities. The government has warned that anyone caught recording or sharing such videos will be held accountable.
Impact at the Grassroots
Community leaders have praised the governor’s foresight and commitment. Chief Gogo Owen Adaka, the village head of Amadaka, described the initiative as a “remarkable achievement,” noting that his people can now access healthcare services without worrying about high medical costs.
“We are happy that we can access healthcare with minimum cost in our community,”
— Chief Gogo Owen Adaka, Village Head of Amadaka.
Similarly, Chief Benjamin Adolphus from Kampa commended the governor’s large-heartedness for bringing healthcare closer to rural dwellers through the registration exercise at local facilities.
Healthcare analysts have also hailed the scheme as timely and necessary. By pooling funds through a shared insurance model, the initiative helps reduce catastrophic health expenditures and ensures efficient, equitable, and sustainable healthcare for all residents.
Governor Umo Eno’s health insurance expansion reflects a new era of people-centered governance in Akwa Ibom. By bringing quality healthcare to rural communities, his administration is not only improving lives but also setting a model for other states to follow.
As the initiative continues to spread across the state, one thing is clear—accessible healthcare for every Akwa Ibom citizen is no longer a dream, but a growing reality.
Read more 👉 https://www.buzzcurrent.com.ng/2025/10/how-umo-eno-is-extending-health.html
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