The Executive Secretary of the Ebonyi State Health Insurance Agency (EBSHIA), Dr Divine Igwe, has commended the wife of the Ebonyi State Governor, Mrs. Mary-Maudline Nwifuru, for what he described as one of the largest healthcare interventions in Nigeria, following the launch of the second phase of the enrollment of 10,000 pregnant women into the state’s health insurance scheme.
The event, which took place at the Women Development Centre, Abakaliki, marked another major stride in the state government’s efforts to promote maternal health and reduce the mortality rate among pregnant women, especially those in rural communities.
Speaking during the flag-off, Mrs. Nwifuru said the initiative implemented in partnership with her foundation, BERWO Foundation, and EBSHIA was designed to provide free healthcare coverage, maternal support items, and health education to expectant mothers across all 177 wards of the state.
“As a mother, I understand the joys and challenges of pregnancy and motherhood.
“For many women, especially in rural areas, pregnancy can be a journey of fear rather than joy. This initiative is meant to change that narrative by giving them access to quality care, dignity, and hope," Mrs Nwifuru said.
She further explained that the programme encourages antenatal attendance, safe delivery practices, nutritional awareness, breastfeeding, and emotional support for mothers-to-be.
“To our mothers here today and across Ebonyi State: you are strong, you are valuable, and you are the heartbeat of our communities. Your health is your strength, and we will continue to stand by you through every step of this journey,” she said.
In his remarks, Igwe commended the First Lady for her unwavering commitment to the health and wellbeing of women and vulnerable groups in the state, noting that her interventions have already touched thousands of lives.
“The intervention by the Governor’s wife is one of the largest healthcare initiatives in the country.
"Over 4,000 women and vulnerable persons, including 300 sickle cell patients, have already been enrolled through her efforts. This second phase, which targets 10,000 pregnant women, is a clear testament to her compassion and leadership," he said.
He added that the state’s health insurance agency is not only enrolling beneficiaries but also tracking their healthcare journey to ensure they receive the best possible services.
“Pregnancy should never be regarded as a death sentence.
“With this intervention, Ebonyi women can now approach childbirth with confidence, knowing they are covered," Igwe emphasized.
A board member of EBSHIA, Mrs. Irene Joy Fidelis Nwifuru, also commended the First Lady’s commitment to women’s welfare, describing her as a “mother to all” whose policies transcend political and regional boundaries.
“Her Excellency’s initiatives are for the wellbeing of every Ebonyi woman, regardless of location or background. We are proud of her passion and believe more life-changing projects are on the way,” she said.
The event attracted government officials, healthcare workers, women leaders, and beneficiaries who applauded the First Lady’s continued efforts to promote safe motherhood and improve healthcare access across Ebonyi State.
Recall that the Ebonyi State Health Insurance Scheme (EBSHIA) was established to provide affordable and accessible healthcare to residents of the state.
Through its partnership with the BERWO Foundation, thousands of women, children, and vulnerable persons have benefitted from free healthcare coverage.
The ongoing enrollment of 10,000 pregnant women under the 2nd phase of the programme further reinforces Ebonyi’s position as one of the leading states in maternal and child health interventions in Nigeria.
Victor Nwegede
