Edo State Governor, Mr Godwin Obaseki, has greenlit a groundbreaking initiative, approving the provision of free health insurance for pensioners in the state and allocating a substantial N1 billion to fund comprehensive health services.
This strategic move aims to cater to the healthcare needs of elderly citizens and underscores the government’s unwavering commitment to delivering high-quality and affordable healthcare.
The announcement came from Dr Rock Amegor, the Director-General of the Edo State Health Insurance Commission, in Benin on Tuesday. Dr Amegor emphasized the government’s dedication to alleviating financial burdens on beneficiaries, marking a significant stride towards achieving Universal Health Coverage for all residents. Notably, the free health insurance service will also extend its coverage to include members of the State’s Security Vigilante Network.
Commending Governor Obaseki as a trailblazer, Dr Amegor expressed gratitude for the government’s forward-thinking decision to allocate N1 billion to cover the free health insurance service for pensioners and vigilantes, making Edo State the second in Nigeria to provide such coverage.
Dr Amegor urged pensioners across the 18 local government areas of Edo State to actively participate in the program once details of the enrollment process are released. The initiative, rooted in the government’s commitment to Universal Health Coverage, aims to relieve pensioners of financial strains associated with healthcare services.
The comprehensive health insurance service encompasses robust medical care, addressing 70 to 80 percent of various medical challenges individuals may encounter. Services covered include medical, eye care, dental care, and other essential healthcare provisions.
Expressing gratitude to the Edo State Government, Dr Amegor appealed to other state governors to emulate Edo State’s example, ensuring that pensioners are afforded comprehensive health coverage, thereby addressing concerns about their health and overall well-being.
