EBSHIA Putting Ebonyians First, Strengthening Access To Affordable Healthcare — Nwedu
Hon. Nwedu Abraham Nwedu, a member of the Ebonyi State Board of Internal Revenue (EBSIRS), has commended the Ebonyi State Government for the implementation of the Ebonyi State Health Insurance Scheme through the Ebonyi State Health Insurance Agency (EBSHIA), describing the initiative as a major step towards making quality healthcare more accessible to residents.
In a statement made available to journalists, Nwedu said the health insurance scheme reflects the people-centred vision of the administration of Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru and its commitment to improving the welfare of citizens through the People’s Charter of Needs.
According to him, the scheme is designed to expand access to healthcare services while reducing the financial burden associated with paying medical bills directly from personal income.
He noted that healthcare should not be a privilege available only to people who can afford expensive medical treatment, stressing that every Ebonyian deserves access to quality and affordable healthcare regardless of age, social status, or location.
Nwedu said EBSHIA provides an important framework for strengthening financial protection for families and encouraging residents to seek medical attention when necessary without being deterred by the cost of treatment.
He further observed that the initiative complements the administration's investments in healthcare infrastructure, medical equipment, emergency services, and the welfare of healthcare professionals, creating a more comprehensive approach to improving the state's health sector.
According to him, the success of any healthcare system depends not only on hospitals and medical equipment but also on ensuring that residents can actually afford to access the services provided.
Nwedu praised Governor Nwifuru for placing the wellbeing of Ebonyians at the centre of his administration's development agenda, saying the health insurance scheme demonstrates a commitment to building a more inclusive and resilient healthcare system.
He added that expanding health insurance coverage could particularly benefit low-income families and vulnerable residents by providing them with greater confidence to access healthcare when the need arises.
The EBSIRS board member described the People’s Charter of Needs as a practical expression of responsive governance, noting that its impact is increasingly being felt across critical sectors, particularly healthcare.
He said Governor Nwifuru's approach to healthcare demonstrates that government must not only construct facilities but also create systems that enable ordinary citizens to benefit from them.
Nwedu expressed optimism that continued strengthening and expansion of EBSHIA would further improve healthcare access across the 13 local government areas of the state and contribute to better health outcomes for Ebonyians.
He commended the governor for what he described as compassionate and purposeful leadership and prayed for God's continued wisdom, strength, and good health for him as he pursues policies aimed at building a healthier, stronger, and more prosperous Ebonyi State.
