By Portia Osayande
The Edo State Health Insurance Commission (EDHIC) has reaffirmed its commitment to expanding access to quality healthcare through stronger collaboration with local government authorities in the State.
The Director General of EDHIC, Mrs. Augusta Ikpea-Enaholo made the commitment when she solicited the support of the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Dr. Lucky Eseigbe, during her official visit to the Commissioner on Friday, February 14th, 2025 in Benin City.
Mrs. Ikpea-Enaholo highlighted the vital roles of local governments in driving awareness and enrollment in the Edo State Health Insurance Scheme (EdoHIS), particularly for informal sector workers and rural communities. She noted that increasing participation in the scheme would enhance service delivery and ensure the long-term sustainability of health insurance coverage in the State.
“The local government system is pivotal in ensuring that every Edo resident, especially those in underserved areas, has access to quality and affordable healthcare. By strengthening our partnership, we can expand enrollment, improve service delivery, and secure sustainable healthcare access for all,” she stated.
Dr. Lucky Eseigbe commended EDHIC’s efforts in transforming healthcare access in Edo State and reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to supporting the Health Insurance Scheme. He assured that local governments would play active roles in sensitization and enrollment campaigns to ensure that healthcare reaches every community.
The Commissioner noted, “We recognize the importance of health insurance in improving healthcare outcomes. This collaboration will help us extend the benefits of the State’s Health Insurance Scheme to the grassroot.”
The discussions also explored strategic initiatives aimed at strengthening healthcare delivery at the grassroot. Key focus areas included collaborative sensitization programmes to increase public awareness of the benefits of health insurance, enhancing healthcare facilities in rural communities, and integrating local government structures into EDHIC’s operational framework to ensure seamless service delivery. Both parties agreed that a well-coordinated approach would be crucial in achieving the State’s universal health coverage goals.
As EDHIC continues to engage key stakeholders, residents are encouraged to take full advantage of the Edo State Health Insurance Scheme. By enrolling in the scheme, individuals and families can access quality, affordable healthcare without financial strain. The Commission remains committed to expanding coverage, improving service delivery, and ensuring that no resident is left behind in the journey toward a healthier Edo State.
