In a major step toward achieving universal health coverage, the Ebonyi State Government has announced plans to enroll 29,000 persons living with HIV (PLHIV) into its health insurance scheme at no cost.
The initiative, spearheaded by the Ebonyi State Health Insurance Agency (EBSHIA), was unveiled during the Network of People Living with HIV and AIDS in Nigeria (NEPWHAN) Conference held in Abakaliki, the state capital.
According to the state government, the free health insurance enrolment is part of a Global Fund–supported project implemented in collaboration with the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) and the National Tuberculosis, Leprosy and Buruli Ulcer Control Programme (NTBLCP).
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Executive Secretary of EBSHIA,Dr. Divine Igwe, who represented the government at the event, said the initiative reflects Governor Francis Nwifuru’s commitment to inclusive healthcare and social protection for vulnerable groups in Ebonyi.
He noted that the programme would ensure access to quality healthcare services for beneficiaries, thereby improving health outcomes and reducing the financial burden on families affected by HIV.
Participants at the conference including Mrs Deborah Ituma and Mr Anthony Okorie lauded the state government’s effort, describing it as a timely intervention that would strengthen the fight against HIV/AIDS and promote the well-being of affected persons across Ebonyi State.
