The State Government has flagged off the enrolment of ten thousand widows into its Contributory Health Scheme, beginning with the registration of 400 widows in Okpe Local Government Area.
The ceremony which saw the team from the Delta State Contributory Health Commission and that of the Widows Welfare Scheme ensuring an on the spot registration of the widows , held at the Okpe Local Government Council Multipurpose Hall, Orerokpe.
The Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of the State Contributory Health Commission, Dr. Isaac Akpoveta, said Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, in his wisdom and empathy, had taken a decisive step to wipe tears from the eyes of ten thousand widows across the state by paying their premiums into the scheme.
Dr. Akpoveta explained that the programme was designed to ensure inclusiveness, regardless of age, financial status, or social standing, describing the enrolment as a testament to the Governor’s leadership style of building bridges of hope for the vulnerable.
According to him, the initiative guaranteed access to quality healthcare across accredited facilities in the state, protected families from catastrophic health expenses, and preserved the dignity of widows.
He called on communities to encourage their loved ones to enrol, including philanthropists and corporate bodies to sponsor more vulnerable groups, while urging the media to continue to spread awareness that health insurance was for everyone.
The Executive Assistant to the Governor on Social Investment and State Coordinator, Widows Welfare Scheme, Dr. Isioma Okonta, said the gesture symbolised compassion, social justice, and equity, urging widows to continue to pray for the Governor and the state.
Chief Okonta announced the commencement of monthly widows’ prayer sessions across the 25 Local Government Areas for Governor Oborevwori and the state.
The visibly elated beneficiaries passed a vote of confidence on Governor Oborevwori, pledging support for his administration and endorsing him for a second term.
The motion for the vote of confidence and endorsement of the Governor for 2027, was moved by Mrs Christiana Ukavwe and seconded by Mrs Vero German, with overwhelming support from the widows present.
Earlier, the team from the Health Commission and Widows Welfare Scheme paid a courtesy visit to the Palace of the Orodje of Okpe Kingdom, Orhue I, where the Efeyota of Okpe
Kingdom and First Deputy President-General of the Urhobo Progress Union, Chief Isaac Itebu, conveyed the King’s blessings and support for the programme.
Highlight of the event was the presentation of Health Insurance cards to the beneficiaries and inaugural prayer session for the Governor and the state, led by Pastor Patience Adaka.
Those enrolled have been captured into the database of the state Contributory Health Commission and would start receiving free healthcare service in their chosen health facilities in two weeks.
NIM
