In a bold step toward expanding healthcare access, the Oden Ewa Foundation has sponsored health insurance coverage for 1,500 vulnerable individuals across the six local government areas of Cross River Central Senatorial District. The foundation invested N18 million in the initiative, ensuring that each LGA—Yakurr, Abi, Obubra, Etung, Ikom, and Boki—receives coverage for 250 beneficiaries under the Cross River State Health Insurance Scheme NEGROIDHAVEN has confirmed.
During the formal presentation of a cheque to the Cross River Health Insurance Agency, the foundation’s founder, Mr. Oden Ewa, described the initiative as a direct investment in the well-being of the people, beginning with the central senatorial district.
Mr. Ewa, who also serves as the Cross River State Commissioner for Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Affairs, emphasized that the effort aligns with Governor Bassey Otu’s commitment to improving healthcare access across the state.
Represented by Dr. Ofem Usani, he stated: “I am delighted to witness this groundbreaking initiative, which marks the launch of a 1,500-premium health package. This is a direct investment in our people’s well-being and a testament to the governor’s unwavering commitment to public welfare. This strategic partnership also strengthens our goal of building vibrant and dynamic communities that contribute to the state’s socio-economic development.”
He further commended the governor for fostering public-private partnerships in the health sector.
The Director General of the Cross River State Health Insurance Agency, Dr. Godwin Iyala, lauded the initiative as a commendable model for healthcare intervention. He highlighted the foundation’s approach—where individuals sponsor insurance coverage for multiple beneficiaries—as a sustainable strategy for expanding healthcare access.
Dr. Iyala also pledged to ensure the state’s Health Insurance Scheme achieves remarkable success and becomes a reference point for other states.
Similarly, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, Rt. Hon. Ekpo Ekpo Bassey, praised Commissioner Oden Ewa for his foundation’s commitment to healthcare financing, describing the initiative as a model for individuals and organizations to emulate.
Bassey, a former House of Assembly member who sponsored the bill that established the Cross River State Health Insurance Scheme, urged more stakeholders, particularly those in influential positions, to follow Oden Ewa’s example in supporting healthcare accessibility for the less privileged.
He reaffirmed the government’s dedication to partnering with well-meaning organizations to enhance healthcare services and called for greater participation in providing affordable, high-quality healthcare for vulnerable populations.
The Cross River State Coordinator of the National Health Insurance Authority, Mr. Stanley Efah, expressed optimism that the expansion of health insurance coverage nationwide—through collaboration with state health insurance agencies—would continue to gain momentum. He commended the Oden Ewa Foundation for its humanitarian efforts, describing the enrollment of 1,500 vulnerable individuals as “a crucial step toward broader healthcare access.”
Efah also acknowledged Governor Bassey Otu’s leadership in strengthening healthcare initiatives and thanked Hon. Oden Ewa for his commitment, particularly in addressing the critical issue of sustainability. He congratulated the Cross River State Government and the State Health Insurance Agency on this milestone achievement.
Dr. Ben Arikpo, a member of the Health Insurance Board, and Mr. Jude Agaji, a Director at the agency, also commended the Oden Ewa Foundation for its significant investment in the healthcare needs of the poor and vulnerable in Cross River Central Senatorial District.
