Kwara State has committed an initial N200 million grant to ensure the successful take-off of its State Health Insurance Agency.
The State Governor, Alhaji Abdulfatah Ahmed, stated this in Ilorin while speaking at the meritorious award presentation of the State Medical and Health Workers Union of Nigeria.
Ahmed, who was represented by the Special Adviser on Labour Matters, Comrade Bisi Fakayode, said the new agency would operate statewide to meet the health challenges of the people.
The Governor explained that the scheme would be funded with one per cent of the State consolidated fund, grants from donor agencies and premium to be paid by beneficiaries.
Ahmed stated that the scheme would be saddled with the mandate of providing qualitative, affordable and accessible health-care delivery for all categories of people in the State.
Governor Ahmed noted that the State Government was committed to improving the health and well being of its people, hence the support given to the Medical and Health workers across the State.
The Governor praised members of the Union for their contributions to the development of the nation’s health sector, urging them to keep up the good work.
Also speaking, the Vice President, North Central zone of the Union, Comrade Bashir Suleiman, who applauded Governor Ahmed for his doggedness and commitment in resolving some issues bordering on the welfare and well being of his members, charged members of the Union to work towards the upliftment of its activities.
The State Chairman of the Union, Comrade Muritala Saheed Olayinka, appreciated the government for the recent payment of Local Government workers salaries in full in the last two months, urging the State government to continue in this direction.
Olayinka called on the government to address grey areas that needed urgent attention such as the full implementation of the Consolidated Health Salary Structure, payment of gratuity and pension among others.
Over 20 personalities were given award for their effort at improving the welfare of the people and the Union.