The Edo State Health Insurance Commission (EDOHIC) on Tuesday commemorated Children’s Day with a wide-reaching healthcare outreach campaign across the state’s three senatorial districts. The initiative focused on delivering essential medical support to orphans and vulnerable children, marking the celebration with acts of compassion and commitment to universal healthcare.
As part of the outreach, over 450 children, mostly orphans, were formally enrolled into the Edo State Health Insurance Scheme (EDOHIS), granting them access to affordable and quality healthcare services. This move reinforces the government’s effort to bridge the healthcare gap for underserved groups.
The Commission’s team visited five registered orphanages and three government-run health facilities, extending care, solidarity, and medical assistance. Their presence brought joy to the children and highlighted the state’s focus on inclusive healthcare.
In a notable act of compassion, EDOHIC also cleared outstanding hospital bills for several indigent children. This immediate relief was a source of hope for struggling families and a strong statement of the state government’s mission to achieve universal healthcare access.
During the outreach, EDOHIC Director General, Mrs Augusta Ikpea-Enaholo, emphasized the importance of inclusivity in healthcare. “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 across the state and praised Governor Monday Okpebholo’s unwavering dedication to child welfare.
At one of the hospitals visited, Dr Anthonia Inibokun Njoku, Chief Medical Director, expressed her gratitude for the initiative. “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 said.
Other beneficiaries also shared heartfelt appreciation. Sir Nathaniel Cole, proprietor of an orphanage, commended EDOHIC for enrolling 150 children under his care, saying the gesture had lifted a huge burden. Similarly, Mr Uromi Eriaremien Ekpenbor spoke of how the support helped his family cover medical bills they couldn’t afford. In her remarks, Mrs Omonigho Trimistas, EDOHIC’s Director of Public Relations, called on wealthy Nigerians and philanthropists to emulate the Commission’s gesture by supporting vulnerable children and helping to settle their medical expenses.
