Amawbia, Anambra State – In a groundbreaking event that marked the largest gathering of its kind, Mrs. Nonye Soludo, the wife of Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, facilitated the enrollment of 1,000 persons with disabilities into the Anambra State Health Insurance Scheme. This historic event took place at the Governor’s Lodge in Amawbia, showcasing an unprecedented level of support and care for persons with disabilities since the inception of the scheme in 2018.
Mrs. Soludo, who is also the founder of the Healthy Living with Nonye Soludo Initiative, expressed her pride in sponsoring the beneficiaries hailing from the 179 communities across Anambra State. She emphasized that this initiative is entirely free of charge, aiming to provide comprehensive healthcare to those in dire need.
Addressing the assembled beneficiaries, Mrs. Soludo highlighted the commitment of her husband’s administration to improving the welfare of people with disabilities, especially those residing in grassroots areas. “This intervention is a testament to our shared commitment to the well-being of people with disabilities. It demonstrates our dedication to ensuring that everyone living in Anambra State experiences the benefits of good governance,” she stated.
She reassured the audience that the state government is diligently working to ensure that every resident, including those with disabilities, has access to essential services and opportunities. “Anambra’s human capital policies are meticulously designed to explore potentials and provide a veritable platform for all residents to thrive,” Mrs. Soludo added.
The governor’s wife also affirmed that each beneficiary would leave the event fully insured, granting them access to free medical care at selected health facilities across the state. This initiative not only alleviates the financial burden on the families of persons with disabilities but also ensures they receive the necessary medical attention to lead healthier lives.
The event saw commendations from various state officials and representatives. Mrs. Ify Obinabo, the Anambra Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Welfare, lauded Mrs. Soludo for her humanitarian efforts. She reiterated the state government’s readiness to form partnerships aimed at expanding access to affordable healthcare and improving family welfare packages. “We are poised to collaborate with all willing partners to enhance healthcare delivery and ensure that no one is left behind,” Mrs. Obinabo remarked.
Comrade Ugochukwu Okeke, the Anambra State Chairman of the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities, expressed profound gratitude for Mrs. Soludo’s generosity. He appealed for the inclusion of persons with disabilities in the Healthy Living campaign, underscoring the unique health challenges they face, such as access to healthcare, social stigma, and discrimination. “This inclusion would be a significant step towards addressing the multifaceted challenges encountered by persons with disabilities,” Comrade Okeke noted.
Hon. Beverly Ikpeazu-Nkemdiche, the Commissioner for Special Duties, in her goodwill message, emphasized that the gesture by Mrs. Soludo underscores the importance the state government places on its social agenda. She pointed out that the current administration’s policies are crafted to have a direct impact on the grassroots, ensuring that the benefits of governance reach the most vulnerable populations.
The event also featured heartfelt appreciations from some of the beneficiaries. Mr. Kinsley Godwin and Ms. Justina Ikenna expressed their unwavering support for the Soludo administration and offered prayers for blessings upon Mrs. Soludo for her benevolent heart. Their testimonies echoed the gratitude and hope that this initiative has inspired within the community of persons with disabilities in Anambra State.
Prominent figures in attendance included Dr. Simon Onyemeachi, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Anambra State Health Insurance Agency; Barrister Chuks Ezewuzie, the Chairman of the Anambra State Disability Rights Commission; Mrs. Josephine Onah, the State Coordinator of the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption Programme (RoLAC); Mrs. Amara Ezeokenwa, wife of the National Chairman of APGA; and the Anambra State Woman Leader of APGA, among others.
This monumental event not only highlighted the dedication of the Soludo administration to inclusive governance but also set a new benchmark for social welfare initiatives in Anambra State. The enrollment of 1,000 persons with disabilities into the health insurance scheme is a significant stride towards a more equitable and compassionate society.
