Kogi leads Nigeria’s health insurance coverage for adults – Commissioner

Kogi State Government says it has made a remarkable breakthrough in healthcare, emerging as Nigeria’s top performing state in insurance coverage for adults.

Mr Kingsley Fanwo, Kogi Commissioner for Information and Communication Strategy, disclosed this in a statement made available to our correspondent on Friday in Lokoja.

According to him, the latest 2023 data from StatiSense and EFInA, an impressive 11 per cent of Kogi’s population is now enrolled in insurance, emerging as Nigeria’s top performing state in insurance coverage for adults.

Fanwo said the data showed that Kogi surpassed major states like Lagos, Oyo, and the Federal Capital Territory, with Nine, Seven , and six per cent respectively.

He emphasised that this achievement was a testament to the state government’s commitment to expanding quality, affordable healthcare to its citizens.

“At the heart of Kogi’s success is the Kogi State Health Insurance Agency (KGSHIA), led by Dr Kunle Aledare.

“Under Aledare’s leadership, the agency has implemented a people-centered approach, driving aggressive enrollment, rural outreach, and partnerships that deliver inclusive, sustainable health financing.

“This approach has enabled thousands of rural and underserved residents to access essential health services without fear of financial ruin.

“The Kogi State Government’s achievement has not gone unnoticed. Other states are already studying the Kogi model as the administration moves closer to universal health coverage.

“The government’s commitment to improving the health and wellbeing of Kogites is evident in its efforts to build a healthcare system that truly works for everyone,” he said.

Fanwo noted that Gov. Ahmed Ododo’s administration remained dedicated to building a healthy, empowered, and productive population as the foundation for sustainable development.

He added: “In a further push to extend affordable healthcare, the Kogi State Government recently signed a landmark pact with the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE).

“The agreement provides local government staff access to affordable insurance under the state scheme, with thousands of Kogi pensioners already enrolled.

“The government is also upgrading over 200 Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) across the state to guarantee grassroots access to quality care.

“This initiative is a game-changer for Kogi’s healthcare landscape, and the government is committed to ensuring that its citizens have access to cheap, quality, and accessible healthcare”.

Fanwo noted that the state government’s success in healthcare was as a result of its collaborative efforts with various stakeholders.

He acknowledged the Federal Government’s support as crucial to the success of the state’s healthcare initiatives.

“As Kogi State continues to build on its achievements, it is clear that the government’s commitment to healthcare will remain a top priority,” he added.