Reps unveil health insurance scheme for accredited journalists
The House of Representatives has enrolled accredited journalists covering its proceedings into the Federal Capital Territory Health Insurance Scheme after the Chairman of the House Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Akin Rotimi, sponsored a one-year premium for them.
The symbolic presentation of enrollment identity cards took place at the National Assembly Complex, drawing commendations from beneficiaries who described the gesture as a significant boost to journalists’ welfare and a step toward advancing universal health coverage in Nigeria.
Speaking at the ceremony, Rotimi, a member of the All Progressives Congress, said the initiative reflects the commitment of the 10th Assembly to strengthen engagement with the media and safeguard the wellbeing of reporters assigned to cover legislative activities.
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He acknowledged the support of the Speaker of the House, Abbas Tajudeen, stressing that the Press Corps remains an indispensable partner in the lawmaking process.
According to Rotimi, the demanding nature of journalism—often involving long hours and tight deadlines—makes access to quality healthcare essential for reporters.
“We consider them critical stakeholders in legislative affairs. You work tirelessly, sometimes late into the night. In the process of carrying out your constitutional duties, you may not prioritise your own health. But we need you strong and healthy to continue serving the nation,” he said.
He noted that the scheme is designed to provide sustainable healthcare access while encouraging broader participation in health insurance coverage nationwide.
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Also speaking, the Mandate Secretary of the FCT Health Services and Environment Secretariat, Dolapo Fasawe, represented by Permanent Secretary Baba-Gaba Adam, described the sponsorship as a major contribution to expanding healthcare access in the territory.
She commended Rotimi’s decision to enroll the entire Press Corps for one year, describing it as aligned with the scheme’s “Adopt and Enroll” initiative, which encourages individuals and organisations to sponsor coverage for others.
“This gesture is visionary and compassionate. A healthy press is vital to a healthy democracy, and this act ensures that those who inform the public can access quality healthcare without financial hardship,” she said.
Fasawe disclosed that the scheme offers access to quality healthcare services at an annual premium of ₦22,500 per person and urged other leaders and institutions to emulate the example to reduce out-of-pocket medical expenses.
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Chairman of the House Committee on Nutrition and Food Security, Chike Okafor, described the initiative as historic, noting that health insurance remains a crucial safeguard against catastrophic medical costs.
Similarly, the Chairperson of the FCT Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Grace Ike, said the programme underscores the importance of journalists in democratic governance.
“Health insurance is protection, not a luxury. Media professionals operate under intense pressure and exposure to risks. When journalists are healthy and secure, they are better positioned to serve with courage and professionalism,” she said.
The Chairman of the House of Representatives Press Corps, Gboyega Onadiran, added that the enrollment represents a practical contribution to universal health coverage, noting that journalists regularly witness the financial hardship faced by Nigerians without health insurance.
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The initiative is expected to cover over 100 members of the Press Corps for one year, reinforcing the Assembly’s commitment to media welfare and democratic accountability.
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