Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara has increased the number of targeted persons to benefit from the free healthcare services in Rivers State to 100,000, up from the initial 68,874.

The move is in line with his “Rivers people first” mantra, demonstrating his commitment to the well-being of the state’s residents.

The Acting Executive Secretary of the Rivers State Contributory Health Protection Programme (RIVCHPP), Dr. Vetty Agala, announced a sensitisation programme at the weekend while urging local government councils to intensify efforts to enroll more residents in the scheme.

Dr Agala noted that only 37,000 persons have been enrolled so far, calling on councils to collaborate with RIVCHPP to sensitize their communities and sponsor additional enrollments.

Agala emphasized the importance of local government councils in driving the enrollment process, particularly in wards where awareness and participation are low.

She added that by working together, the state government aims to achieve its vision of universal health coverage for all Rivers people.

She clarified that the initiative is a social health insurance scheme designed to provide access to quality healthcare services for all, regardless of financial resources.

According to her, the solidarity scheme aimed to bridge the healthcare gap between the rich and the poor, ensuring that everyone receives equal access to medical care.

She assured that RIVCHPP will continue to engage with stakeholders, including ward and Community Development Committees, to ensure maximum enrollment in the programme.

She, however, announced plans to unveil policies tailored for civil servants in the state, with enrollment premiums adjusted according to their salary levels.