The Rivers State Contributory Health Protection Programme (RIVCHPP) has achieved a major milestone in its mission to deliver accessible and affordable healthcare to residents. The agency announced that it has officially surpassed the enrolment target set by the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) under the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF). This achievement marks a significant step forward in Rivers State’s journey toward attaining Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
Speaking on this development, the Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of RIVCHPP, Dr. Vetty Agala, expressed immense pride in the agency’s rapid progress. She noted that the milestone is a testament to the dedication of the state government, under the leadership of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, to prioritize the health and well-being of Rivers State residents, particularly the most vulnerable.
Achieving and Exceeding Targets
The BHCPF is a federal initiative designed to provide basic health services to vulnerable populations across Nigeria. By exceeding the NHIA’s enrolment benchmark, RIVCHPP has demonstrated its capacity for efficient resource mobilization, strategic planning, and community engagement. Dr. Agala highlighted that the scheme has successfully registered thousands of vulnerable citizens—including pregnant women, children under five, the elderly, and persons living with disabilities—granting them access to essential healthcare services without financial hardship.
A Call for Equitable Donor Support
Despite these remarkable strides, the agency emphasized that substantial funding gaps remain. To sustain this momentum and expand coverage to millions of other residents who are still uninsured, Dr. Agala made a strong appeal to international development partners, non-governmental organizations, and private donors. She called for the equitable distribution of donor support, urging partners to align their interventions with the specific needs of Rivers State.
“While we celebrate this milestone, the demand for health coverage remains high,” Dr. Agala stated. “We call on our local and international partners to support us equitably. Collaborative donor funding will enable us to scale up our operations, upgrade primary healthcare facilities, and ensure that no Rivers resident is left behind in our quest for universal health access.”
The Path to Universal Health Coverage
With RIVCHPP leading the charge, Rivers State is positioning itself as a leader in healthcare reform in Nigeria. The agency remains committed to strengthening the state’s healthcare system by ensuring transparent fund management, improving service delivery at primary healthcare centers, and fostering public-private partnerships. By securing more equitable donor funding, RIVCHPP aims to secure a healthier, more productive future for all citizens of Rivers State.
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