The Kogi State Government has reiterated its commitment to delivering accessible and quality healthcare services for all residents, with a special focus on vulnerable populations. Speaking in Lokoja during the International Universal Health Coverage Day, Dr. Aledare Adekunle, Executive Secretary of the Kogi State Health Insurance Agency, highlighted significant strides made under Governor Ododo’s administration.
Dr. Adekunle noted that over 14,000 vulnerable individuals, including pregnant women, children under five, the elderly, and people living with disabilities, have been enrolled in the state’s free health insurance program. This initiative, along with the Federal Government’s Basic Health Care Provision Fund, has extended healthcare access to 155,000 residents. He praised the continued support for these programs, including the “Bello Care” initiative introduced by the former governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello.
The state government is also revitalizing over 70 primary healthcare centers across Kogi’s 21 local government areas. These efforts aim to strengthen a referral system that seamlessly transfers patients to tertiary healthcare facilities without additional costs. This initiative aligns with Governor Ododo’s vision to bring healthcare services closer to communities and alleviate the financial burden of out-of-pocket medical expenses.
Dr. Adekunle revealed plans to expand funding for affordable healthcare by 2025, ensuring no resident is left behind in accessing essential medical services. He expressed confidence in the state’s ability to meet the World Health Organization’s Universal Health Coverage target by 2030, emphasizing the government’s resolve to prioritize health as a cornerstone of development.
The Executive Secretary also urged continued collaboration between the state government, federal agencies, and stakeholders to sustain these achievements and build a resilient healthcare system that delivers equitable services to all Kogites.
