By Onomiguren Agbamu
The Delta State Government on Wednesday onboarded traditional rulers across the 25 local government areas into the Delta State Contributory Health Commission to strengthen grassroots advocacy.
Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of the Commission, Dr. Isaac Akpoveta, during an engagement with traditional rulers across the state, said this is taking effect 12 years after an initial advocacy campaign that helped establish widespread support for the health insurance scheme.
He said, “Twelve years ago, we carried out advocacy among traditional rulers in Delta State. We met with stakeholders across the three senatorial districts in robust sessions, seeking their advice, guidance, and buy-in for the scheme.”
“That engagement helped us tremendously. We have now reached almost every corner of the state, and many of those enrolled in the scheme today are a direct result of that advocacy. Twelve years later, it is time to update them.”
He added, “They advised us 12 years ago—have we taken that advice? Yes! Have we achieved results? Yes! Today, we are presenting those results to them.”
Dr. Akpoveta revealed that the scheme has grown significantly from zero at inception to about 2.88 million registered Deltans. He noted that the vulnerable group includes children under five, pregnant women, elderly persons aged 65 and above, and individuals who are physically or mentally challenged.
“From zero when we started, we now have about 2.88 million Deltans enrolled in the scheme, particularly among vulnerable groups such as children under five, pregnant women, the elderly aged 65 and above, and persons with physical or mental disabilities,” he said.
“We also informed the traditional rulers that they and their family members are enrolled in the scheme free of charge. Additionally, any community member aged 65 and above, as well as children under five, are enrolled at no cost, in line with the state government’s mandate.”
He explained that the law establishing the commission mandates these provisions, and the commission is fulfilling its responsibility accordingly.
Dr. Akpoveta further noted that the implementation of the scheme has led to a reduction in child mortality, maternal deaths, and pregnancy-related complications, ultimately improving the life expectancy of residents.
“The MORE Agenda of His Excellency, the Governor, is yielding results. Through the commission and other health sector agencies, significant progress is being made, and Deltans are satisfied,” he said.
He also expressed satisfaction with the feedback from traditional rulers, noting that their positive remarks reflected recognition of the commission’s efforts.
On the role of traditional rulers, he emphasized that they are critical to enhancing grassroots mobilization, expanding community reach, and encouraging more people to enroll in the scheme.
Also expressing satisfaction, the chairman of the Commission, Dr. Austin Obidi, said the DGs update are laudable, heartwarming.
“I can see from the comments of our royal fathers, they are very impressed.But the reward of hard work is more work.So clearly, more advocacy and awareness will be carried out to highlight the great strides of the more agenda of His Excellency.”
The Chairman of the Delta State traditional Council, the Orodje of Okpe thank the DG for the special privilege given to them and promise to work in synergy with the commission.
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