By Abel Johngold, mnipr
The Director General and CEO of the Delta State Contributory Health Commission (DSCHC), Olorogun Dr. Isaac Akpoveta, has commended Mr. Godwin Elumelu, a foreign-based Deltan, for subscribing to a health insurance policy for 150 residents of his hometown, Onicha-Uku, in Aniocha North Local Government Area of Delta State.
Dr. Akpoveta described the gesture as life-saving, emphasizing that the high cost of healthcare has been a major challenge for many residents before the Delta State Government introduced the contributory health insurance scheme.
“Health is wealth, and this is a clarion call to our political leaders, local government chairmen, commissioners, House of Assembly members, House of Representatives members, Senators, and all appointees to key into this program. By helping the less privileged to subscribe, you are saving lives without even knowing,” Dr. Akpoveta stated.
He encouraged wealthy individuals at home and abroad to take a cue from Mr. Elumelu by purchasing health insurance for the underprivileged. He explained that with just ₦7,000 per person, a donor could provide an individual with access to quality healthcare for a whole year.
In recognition of his generosity, the DSCHC honored Mr. Godwin Elumelu with a plaque, naming him an “Ambassador of Health Insurance” in the community and across Delta State.
Dr. Akpoveta also lauded Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for his commitment to healthcare, highlighting the governor’s recent injection of ₦1 billion into the state’s health sector to enhance hospitals and health centers.
The President General of Onicha-Uku, while expressing gratitude to Mr. Elumelu, noted that this was the first time anyone had made such an investment in the community’s healthcare. He also appreciated Governor Oborevwori for prioritizing health with substantial funding.
Dr. Ebigide Chukwuma David, a medical doctor at Onicha-Uku General Hospital, praised the Delta State Government for establishing the DSCHC, which has brought healthcare closer to the people. He urged the government to increase funding for the scheme, emphasizing that the program covers referrals when secondary healthcare facilities cannot handle a patient’s needs.
Speaking on behalf of Mr. Godwin Elumelu, Chief Paul Elumelu revealed that the initiative was inspired by the high cost of healthcare in the community. He noted that Mr. Elumelu was passionate about ensuring his people could access medical care without financial strain.
The event underscored the impact of collective efforts in advancing healthcare accessibility in Delta State, with calls for more well-meaning individuals to follow in Mr. Elumelu’s footsteps.