UNICEF and the Oyo State Government are teaming up to tackle child mortality head-on by championing the adoption of health insurance schemes. This collaborative effort was underscored during a recent media workshop held in Ibadan, where stakeholders converged to discuss how health insurance could transform the narrative on child mortality.
Dr. Ijeoma Agbo, a dedicated health specialist with UNICEF, highlighted the importance of ensuring access to high-quality healthcare services without imposing financial burdens, especially for vulnerable populations. While acknowledging the gradual increase in health insurance coverage across the country, Dr. Agbo stressed the persistent gaps that continue to leave many without adequate protection.
She emphasized that achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) demands collective action, involving government bodies, healthcare providers, NGOs, the private sector, communities, and the media. UNICEF remains committed to breaking down barriers and rallying support to ensure that every Nigerian can access essential healthcare services without financial strain.
Dr. Olusola Akande, the Executive Secretary of the Oyo State Health Insurance Agency, shared plans to enroll over 500,000 individuals in the state by the end of the year. He urged Nigerians to fully embrace UHC, highlighting the state government’s substantial investment in the health insurance scheme.
Blessing Ejiofor, the Communication Officer at UNICEF, stressed the pivotal role of health insurance in safeguarding children’s health and urged journalists to advocate for improved coverage, particularly for vulnerable groups.
Dauda Stephen, the Director of Marketing and Quality Assurance, emphasized the agency’s dedication to advocacy efforts aimed at educating the public about the importance of embracing health insurance.
In his opening remarks, Olufemi Adeyemi, another UNICEF health specialist, identified financial constraints as a significant barrier to healthcare delivery. Highlighting UNICEF data, he underscored the urgency of addressing child mortality, which claimed the lives of 4.9 million children under the age of five in 2022 alone.