Gov Otti allocates N1 Billion for Health Insurance Scheme, names Adviser for Airport Project

Governor Alex Otti has approved N1 billion for the Abia State Health Insurance Scheme, following the State Executive Council’s formal approval for its rollout.

This initiative aims to provide affordable healthcare services for Abia workers and residents.

Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, and Health Commissioner, Professor Enoch Uche, announced the development during a press briefing. They emphasized that the scheme reflects the administration’s commitment to improving healthcare in the state.

“The scheme will grant Abia workers and citizens access to affordable healthcare services upon rollout,” Kanu stated.

Prof. Uche revealed that an initial N500 million will be disbursed, with the remaining amount released after six months. He also disclosed that over 54,000 people had already enrolled in the state’s basic healthcare program for vulnerable groups.

To fund the scheme, civil servants are required to contribute 5% of their basic salary, while the state government initially covers 12.5% for the first six months.

Meanwhile, Governor Otti has appointed Dr. Emmanuel Mereibeole as Special Adviser on Projects, specifically to oversee the Abia Airport project. Dr. Mereibeole, a retired Permanent Secretary from the Federal Ministry of Aviation, previously served as Chief Policy Adviser to the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development.

Additionally, the government’s “Project Ekwueme,” which aims to construct 200 primary healthcare centers across Abia’s 184 wards, has reportedly reached 60% completion.

Progress has also been made in water supply projects across the state. According to Kanu, the Aro Ajatakiri water project is now fully completed, while similar projects in Isiala Ngwa North and South are nearing completion. The government is also advancing its Water Supply and Sanitation Hygiene (WASH) Programme to combat open defecation through the construction of modern toilet facilities.

Regarding teacher recruitment, Kanu explained that the government reopened its application portal from March 8 to 12 to allow applicants facing technical issues to update their details.

The press briefing also featured Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Elder Goodluck Ubochi, and Special Adviser on Media & Publicity, Mr. Ferdinand Ekeoma.