The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and the Oyo State Government are joining forces to address child mortality in Nigeria through the adoption of a health insurance scheme. This initiative was highlighted during a recent media workshop in Ibadan, Oyo State, titled ‘Changing the narrative on child mortality through health insurance.’
Dr. Ijeoma Agbo, a health specialist with UNICEF, emphasized the importance of universal health coverage (UHC) in ensuring that all individuals have access to essential healthcare services without facing financial hardship. While progress has been made in increasing the percentage of the population covered by health insurance, there are still significant gaps, particularly among vulnerable populations.
To accelerate progress towards UHC in Nigeria, Dr. Agbo stressed the need for a collaborative approach involving government agencies, healthcare providers, donor agencies, civil society organizations, the private sector, communities, and the media. UNICEF is committed to working with all stakeholders to overcome barriers and ensure that all Nigerians have access to necessary healthcare services.
Dr. Olusola Akande, the Executive Secretary of the Oyo State Health Insurance Agency, shared that the state aims to insure over 500,000 individuals by the end of 2024. The state government has allocated over N1 billion to the health insurance scheme, with an annual premium package of N13,500 per individual. The goal is to enroll everyone, including those living with disabilities and those in vulnerable situations.
Blessing Ejiofor, the Communication Officer at UNICEF, highlighted the importance of access to health insurance in ensuring that children receive timely healthcare services to thrive and fulfill their potential. She urged journalists to advocate for improved health insurance coverage for vulnerable populations.
In 2022, 4.9 million children under the age of five died globally, with 13,400 children under five dying every day. This data underscores the urgent need for initiatives like the health insurance scheme to address child mortality and improve access to healthcare services in Nigeria.
