Abia State Health Insurance Agency (ABSHIA) has commenced a large-scale registration of pupils and students in public primary and secondary schools across the 17 Local Government Areas of the state, under a new health insurance initiative designed to provide free medical services to schoolchildren.
The exercise, which began in schools within the Abia South Senatorial Zone, is expected to be extended to other parts of the state in phases. The programme guarantees access to quality healthcare services for enrolled children throughout the academic session and during school holidays.
According to the Agency, the initiative is aimed at reducing the burden of out-of-pocket medical expenses on parents and guardians, while ensuring that children receive prompt and adequate medical attention in cases of illness or emergencies. By enrolling their wards in the scheme, families can be assured of comprehensive health coverage without financial strain.
The programme, described as the first of its kind in Nigeria, is fully funded by the Abia State Government under the leadership of Governor Alex Otti. The government has made budgetary provisions to cover all medical expenses of registered pupils and students, underscoring its commitment to prioritising the health and welfare of school-aged children.
Education stakeholders have welcomed the development. Reacting to the commencement of the registration exercise, Mrs. Lazarus Victoria Nkechi of Akpaa Mbato Community School 1 and Mrs. Onwere Ihuoma Chituru of Ovom Ama Asaa Community School, both in Obingwa Local Government Area, commended Governor Otti for what they described as a bold and people-oriented initiative. They pledged the full cooperation of their schools to ensure a smooth and successful registration process.
The Abia State Health Insurance Scheme is expected to significantly improve healthcare access among children, promote regular school attendance, and contribute to better learning outcomes. Observers note that the initiative represents a proactive step in strengthening the state’s public health system while advancing the broader goal of inclusive and affordable healthcare for all residents.
