The Ebonyi State Health Insurance Agency (EBSHIA) says over 137,000 people have so far benefited from its health insurance scheme.
The Executive Secretary of EBSHIA, Dr. Divine Igwe, made the disclosure at a rally organised on Tuesday in Abakaliki to endorse Governor Francis Nwifuru for a second term.
Igwe commended the governor’s continued support and numerous health initiatives, which have positively impacted vulnerable populations within and outside the state.
According to him, over 137,000 people have benefited from the agency’s programmes, including free treatment for cataracts, glaucoma and other health conditions.
The executive secretary reaffirmed his commitment to achieving the agency’s Vision 2030 goals and commended Governor Nwifuru’s leadership.
He noted that the governor’s contributions to healthcare development and life-saving interventions would be remembered by future generations.
In their goodwill messages, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Dr. Lawrence Ezeogo, and the Chairman of the EBSHIA Board, Mrs. Ogechi Ogbaga, praised the governor for his unwavering support for the health sector.
They noted that the agency’s interventions have improved healthcare delivery and saved many lives across the state.
Several beneficiaries, including Mrs. Victoria Okafor, Mrs. Chinyere Agwu, Ketrin Ugochi, Nkwuda Joy, Elom Chigozie and Agness Nwanmini, who came from different area councils, expressed gratitude for the free healthcare services provided through the scheme.
They said the programme covered treatments, surgeries, maternal healthcare, childbirth services and other medical interventions at no cost.
Responding through the Chairman of the APC in Ebonyi, Chief Stanley Okoro Emegha, Governor Nwifuru expressed satisfaction with EBSHIA’s achievements and pledged continued support for the agency.
He described the gathering as evidence of a genuine and well-organised movement with strong grassroots backing. He accepted the endorsement and assured residents that his administration would continue expanding the programme to benefit more people across the state.
The endorsement rally began at the Christian Ecumenical Centre in Abakaliki, where participants carrying placards bearing Governor Nwifuru’s portrait gathered before marching to the Pa Ngele Oruta Township Stadium, the venue of the event.
