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The Akwa Ibom State Health Insurance Agency (AKSHIA) has announced its goal to enroll at least 500,000 individuals into its insurance scheme by the end of December 2026.

As of now, 165,000 residents have utilized the insurance services since the program began in 2024. The agency emphasized that it is confident the target of 500,000 enrollees will be met through the strategies and initiatives established.

During a press conference in Uyo on Wednesday, held in honor of the 2025 Universal Health Coverage Day with the theme: “Unaffordable Health Costs? We’re Sick of It,” the Chairman of AKSHIA, Dr. Edikan Ekwere, stated that the agency has expanded its outreach to rural areas, encouraging everyone to enroll in the health insurance scheme.

He mentioned that the agency is advocating for more hospitals, particularly in rural regions, to be accredited for the scheme.

The Chairman also expressed optimism that with the upcoming tertiary institution social health insurance program and other initiatives, the agency will attract more enrollees.

He explained that individuals in the informal sector can also benefit from the scheme by making an upfront annual payment of N18,000. He noted that part of Governor Umo Eno’s decision to declare a state of emergency in the health sector was aimed at ensuring families have access to quality healthcare services and protecting them from the burden of out-of-pocket medical expenses.

He stated, “As of today, we are pleased to inform you that over 165,000 citizens and residents of Akwa Ibom State have been enrolled in the State Health Insurance Scheme, covering the formal and informal sectors, as well as vulnerable populations. While we have made progress, there is still much work to be done as we strive towards our ambitious target of over half a million enrollees by the end of next year.”

Additionally, Dr. Eno Attah, the Executive Secretary of the Akwa Ibom State Primary Health Care Development Agency, emphasized that primary health care is essential for achieving universal health coverage. He pointed out that primary health centers serve over 80 percent of the population, addressing the most common ailments.

Dr. Arthur Igbemi, the Executive Secretary of the Akwa Ibom State Health Insurance Agency, remarked that due to limited funding, the scheme does not cover the treatment of certain conditions such as cancer, tuberculosis, HIV, or cosmetic surgery, although it does include all tests and screenings.

“Funding is another challenge; we need resources to support many vulnerable individuals in the state. Even with the governor’s efforts, there may not be enough resources available. Some illnesses, like any type of cancer, are not covered under this scheme. While we can conduct screenings, we do not provide treatment. Cancer is a terminal illness, and the funds that could treat 20 individuals cannot be allocated for one person who may ultimately succumb to the disease,” he explained.

“We have everything necessary to excel in the health sector, including strong political will from Governor Bassey Eno and a proactive Commissioner for Health, Dr. Ekem Emmanuel John, along with dedicated team leaders ready to tackle any challenges in the health sector,” he concluded.

What is the enrollment target for the Akwa Ibom State Health Insurance Agency?

The agency aims to enroll at least 500,000 individuals into its insurance scheme by the end of December 2026.

How many residents have enrolled in the health insurance scheme so far?

As of now, 165,000 residents have taken advantage of the insurance services since the program began in 2024.

What challenges does the Akwa Ibom State Health Insurance Agency face?

The agency faces funding challenges, which limit the coverage of certain treatments such as cancer, tuberculosis, HIV, and cosmetic surgery.

Eze Chidiebere Paul

Eze Chidiebere Paul

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