By Pat Gbemudu
ASABA/Nigeria: The Chairman of the Delta State Health Insurance Commission, Dr. Austin Obidi, has unveiled a bold vision for the future of healthcare in the state.
Dr. Obidi while expressing his gratitude to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for his unwavering support, emphasized the commitment to achieving universal health coverage.
The chairman made this statement in Asaba on Thursday, November 25, 2025 while inaugurating the Commission’s Governing Board.
Addressing the newly inaugurated members of the Commission’s Governing Board, he underscored the meticulous selection process, citing their academic, professional qualifications, and proven track records. He urged them to bring their best to the table in executing their responsibilities.
He outlined a comprehensive roadmap for the Commission’s programs. Key initiatives including an ambitious plan to exponentially increase the enrollee population to one million per year, ensuring patient satisfaction in healthcare facilities, raising awareness of the scheme, digitizing operations, and enhancing the Access to Finance program, particularly in hard-to-reach rural areas. Additionally, a focus on swift and effective responses to health providers is on the agenda.
Emphasizing the importance of growth and development, the chairman admonished the Board members to prioritize probity, transparency, and accountability in alignment with Governor’s developmental vision.
Dr. Isaac Akpoveta, the Director General of the Commission, highlighted Delta State’s remarkable achievement in surpassing 1.8 million enrollees in just seven years, making it the leading state in health insurance across the federation. He disclosed plans to increase the enrollee base to 2.8 million within the next year, aiming for over 40% coverage of the state’s population.
According to him, Strategies to boost enrollment include the innovative Indigent Enrollees Adoption Initiative, encouraging people to adopt and register indigent individuals around them. The Commission also aims to leverage private organizations, government appointees, artisans, and traders in fulfilling their Corporate Social Responsibilities, particularly in registering individuals with their funds.
In response to their appointment, Deacon Okezie Odugala, speaking on behalf of the newly inaugurated Board members, expressed gratitude for the confidence placed in them and pledged to work tirelessly to elevate the Commission to greater heights.
After taking the relevant oaths of office in the presence of Commission Directors, the newly appointed members were given a tour of various departments to familiarize themselves with the intricacies of their roles.
The ambitious agenda set forth by the Delta State Health Insurance Commission signals a significant stride towards achieving universal health coverage and improving healthcare access for all residents of the state.
