The Edo State Health Insurance Commission (EDOHIC) on Tuesday commemorated Children’s Day with a far-reaching outreach campaign that spanned the three senatorial districts of the state, delivering essential healthcare support to orphans and vulnerable children.
As part of the initiative, more than 450 children, primarily orphans, were formally enrolled into the Edo State Health Insurance Scheme (EDOHIS).
The Commission’s delegation visited five registered orphanages and three government-run health facilities, extending care and solidarity to underserved children.
In a compassionate gesture, EDOHIC also cleared outstanding medical bills for several indigent children, offering immediate relief and affirming the state government’s drive towards universal healthcare access.
Speaking during the outreach, EDOHIC Director General, Mrs Augusta Ikpea-Enaholo, stressed the need for inclusivity in healthcare delivery.
“Every child deserves a healthy start in life. Today’s outreach is part of our broader commitment to ensure no child is left behind, especially those living on society’s margins,” she said.
She also congratulated children in the state on the occasion and hailed Governor Monday Okpebholo’s dedication to child welfare, while describing him as a leader determined to safeguard the future of young citizens.
On one of the hospitals visited, the Chief Medical Director, Dr Anthonia Inibokun Njoku, expressed gratitude for the initiative, noting that the presence of EDOHIC brought joy and hope to the children and their families.
“We are thankful to Senator Okpebholo for his continuous efforts to improve the lives of the people,” she remarked.
Sir Nathaniel Cole, proprietor of one of the orphanages visited, commended the Commission for enrolling about 150 children in the orphanage into the health scheme.
“This initiative has lifted a huge burden, especially concerning medical expenses,” he said.
Another beneficiary, Mr Uromi Eriaremien Ekpenbor, expressed his appreciation for the intervention, explaining how the support helped his family settle hospital bills they would have struggled to pay.
Mrs Omonigho Trimistas, EDOHIC’s Director of Public Relations, used the occasion to call on wealthy Nigerians and philanthropists to emulate the Commission’s gesture by supporting vulnerable children and paying off their medical expenses.
