NJIKOKA CHAIRMAN ENROLLS 1,000 INDIGENES INTO ANAMBRA HEALTH INSURANCE SCHEME
By Chisom Okafor :
In a landmark achievement to mark his first 100 days in office, the Chairman of Njikoka Local Government Area, Barr. Chinedu Ononiba, has enrolled 1,000 indigenes of the local government into the Anambra State Health Insurance Scheme (ASHIA).
The initiative was carried out using the adoption model, which allows individuals or groups to pay the annual health insurance premiums on behalf of others, granting them access to affordable and quality healthcare services. This model aligns with the vision of Gov. Chukwuma Soludo’s administration to improve health insurance coverage across Anambra State.
During the enrollment ceremony, Barr. Ononiba emphasized the importance of affordable healthcare for the people of Njikoka, noting that regular health checkups and timely medical intervention can prevent or detect illnesses before they become severe.
“Now, our people have no excuse not to access quality healthcare at hospitals. I want to eradicate the culture of self-medication. If you are unwell, visit the hospital for professional treatment. This is why we are taking proactive steps to ensure our people get the care they deserve,” chairman said.
Hon. Aroma Okpala, the Supervisor for Health in Njikoka LGA, commended Barr. Ononiba for his dedication to improving the lives of his people, describing the initiative as part of his dream to ensure that even the less privileged in the community can access quality healthcare without financial strain.
“This initiative is a reflection of the chairman’s commitment to his people. He wants the indigent and vulnerable to enjoy access to good healthcare at little or no cost. I urge all beneficiaries to safeguard their ID cards and use them appropriately to access the healthcare services provided,” Okpala said.
The Managing Director of ASHIA, Dr. Simeon Onyemaechi, sensitized the beneficiaries on the benefits of the health insurance scheme, explaining that the scheme is designed to significantly reduce the burden of hospital bills while ensuring access to high-quality treatment.
The ASHIA MD, represented by Miss Onyinye Egwuatu urged beneficiaries to make good use of their chosen healthcare facilities, adding, “Health insurance is a cost-effective way to access professional healthcare. I encourage all enrollees to visit their selected hospitals for treatment and avoid delays in seeking medical attention.”
Many of the beneficiaries expressed appreciation for the initiative, which they described as life-changing. Mrs. Nwokolo Chika, one of the newly enrolled members, thanked the chairman for his generosity and foresight in prioritizing healthcare.
“This initiative is a blessing to many families, including mine. The high cost of hospital bills has been a major challenge, but with this enrollment, we can now access quality care without worrying about finances,” she said.
*Chisom is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State.