The World Health Organisation (WHO) has commended the Enugu State government on advancing Universal Health Coverage (UHC) just as it declared the executive chairman of Enugu East council, Engr. Beloved-Dan Obi Anike, the most pro-health chairman in the state.
The commendation came during the flag-off of the Enugu East Health Insurance Scheme at the Enugu Type-Two Primary Health Care Center in Emene yesterday.
WHO’s South-East zonal coordinator, Dr. Chukwumuanya Igboekwu, described the initiative as a groundbreaking model which marked the first time a council chairman in Nigeria had committed substantial resources to community-wide healthcare access.
Commending the chairman, Igboekwu said Enugu East’s proactive approach aligned with global best practices, strengthening health security and enhancing economic growth through a healthier workforce.
He applauded Enugu State’s strategic healthcare reforms aimed at repositioning the state as a front-runner in the drive for Universal Health Coverage.
During his remarks, Engr. Anike disclosed that the new scheme would enroll 5,000 elderly residents—both indigenes and non-indigenes from the age of 60 years and above—into the State Universal Health Coverage.
He said the initiative would run from April 1, 2025, to April 1, 2026, to ensure free healthcare services for beneficiaries.
