Kogi leads in health insurance coverage

Kogi State has emerged as Nigeria’s top-performing state in insurance coverage for adults, with 11 per cent of its population enrolled, according to new 2023 data from StatiSense and EFInA.

This figure places Kogi ahead of Lagos (nine per cent), Oyo (seven per cent), and the Federal Capital Territory (six per cent), underscoring the state’s commitment to expanding quality, affordable healthcare.

At the centre of this progress is the Kogi State Health Insurance Agency (KGSHIA), led by Dr. Kunle Aledare, whose people-centred approach has driven aggressive enrollment, rural outreach, and partnerships that deliver inclusive, sustainable health financing.

Thousands of rural and underserved residents can now access essential health services without fear of financial ruin.

Government Spokesperson, Kingsley Femi Fanwo, noted: “This data confirms that Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo’s administration is deeply committed to improving the health and wellbeing of Kogites. With Dr. Aledare’s leadership, we are not just building hospitals but a healthcare system that truly works for everyone.”

Fanwo added that other states are already studying the Kogi model as the administration moves closer to universal health coverage.

In a further effort to expand affordable healthcare, the Kogi State Government recently signed a landmark agreement with the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE), granting Local Government staff access to affordable insurance under the state scheme. The Secretary to the State Government, Mrs. Folashade Ayoade, signed the pact on behalf of the state, describing it as a “game changer.”

Fanwo explained that the initiative also covers retirees, with thousands of Kogi pensioners already enrolled and registration ongoing for others.

“We are actively onboarding our retirees, aligning with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to ensure cheap, quality, and accessible healthcare for pensioners and low-income earners,” he stated.

To support the rollout, the government is upgrading over 200 Primary Healthcare Centres across the state to guarantee grassroots access to quality care.

Fanwo hailed the Federal Government for its support, assuring civil servants, Local Government workers, and retirees that the Ododo administration will continue to build a healthy, empowered, and productive population as the foundation for sustainable development.