The World Health Organization (WHO) has commended Enugu State for its exemplary leadership in promoting Universal Health Coverage (UHC), acknowledging the Executive Chairman of Enugu East Local Government Area, Engr. Pst. Beloved-Dan Obi Anike, as the most Pro-Health Mayor in the state.
The Health body gave the commendation during the official launch of the Enugu East Health Insurance Scheme at the Enugu Type Two Primary Health Care Centre in Emene. Dr. Chukwumuanya Igboekwu, the WHO South-East Zonal Coordinator, highlighted the initiative as a pioneering model, marking the first occasion that a Local Government Chairman in Nigeria has dedicated significant resources to ensure community-wide healthcare access.
Dr. Igboekwu stressed that Enugu East’s proactive approach is in line with global best practices, reinforcing health security and promoting economic growth through a healthier workforce. He commended Enugu State’s strategic healthcare reforms, positioning it as a leader in the pursuit of Universal Health Coverage.
In his remarks, Engr. Pst. Beloved-Dan Obi Anike announced that the new scheme will enrol 5,000 elderly residents—both indigenes and non-indigenes aged 60 and above—into the State Universal Health Coverage programme. This initiative, set to run from 1st April 2025 to 1st April 2026, guarantees free healthcare services for these beneficiaries.
The Mayor expressed his gratitude to the Executive Governor of Enugu State for spearheading transformative innovations across multiple sectors, particularly in healthcare. He reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to aligning with the state government’s vision, stating, “When you have a Governor delivering over a thousand projects concurrently, you must take steps to keep up with his momentum.”
Registration Of Some Residents Into The Health Scheme
As part of this commitment, Engr. Anike revealed that his administration has begun constructing Type One Primary Healthcare Centres in Neke-Uno and Obinagu Nike communities, with approval obtained for three additional centres across Enugu East LGA.
Dr. Ifeyinwa Ani-Osheku, Executive Secretary of the Enugu State Primary Health Care Development Agency, described the initiative as a monumental achievement, highlighting its life-changing impact on the elderly population. Similarly, Dr. Edith Okolo, Executive Secretary of the Enugu State Health Insurance Scheme, hailed the project as a historic milestone, ensuring that 5,000 residents in Enugu East LGA will receive free healthcare for an entire year.
The event was attended by notable dignitaries, including the Member Representing Enugu East Rural Constituency, Hon. Raymond Ugwu; Honourable Commissioner for Water Resources, Dr. Felix Nnamani; Member 4 of the Enugu State Local Government Service Commission, Amb. Mrs. Amaka Nweke; Chairman of the Nigerian Medical Association, Rotarian Dr. Sunday; and the PDP Chairman in Enugu East LGA, Hon. Okey Igbokwe, among others.
These stakeholders echoed WHO’s commendation, applauding the Enugu State Government’s unwavering commitment to strengthening healthcare systems and improving access to quality medical services. Enugu State’s healthcare innovations continue to set a benchmark, reinforcing its reputation as a leader in Universal Health Coverage and community-centred healthcare policies.
