The Rivers State Ministry of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation has begun enrolling children from the state’s Children Home into the Rivers State Contributory Health Protection Program. This initiative, launched by Governor Siminalayi Fubara, aims to extend quality healthcare to all residents of Rivers, particularly focusing on vulnerable children and those from low-income backgrounds.

Hon. Ilamu Arugu, the state’s Commissioner for Social Welfare and Rehabilitation, praised the governor’s leadership in initiating a program that includes health coverage for indigent children, which will reduce the financial strain on the ministry. Represented by Permanent Secretary Dr. Justina Jumbo, Arugu emphasized the importance of ensuring that children in state care have access to healthcare without delay, explaining that emergencies often require immediate financial outlays from the ministry. With insurance, these costs can be reduced, providing more sustainable healthcare access for the children.

“We frequently face urgent medical expenses for these children,” Arugu noted. “If they’re insured, many of these costs are alleviated. I thank His Excellency the governor, and God bless him for his commitment to these vulnerable children.”

Dr. Vetty Agala, acting Executive Secretary of the Rivers Contributory Health Protection Program, highlighted the program’s impact across all 23 local councils, with over 47,000 beneficiaries. “The government subsidizes costs to ensure children get medical care without financial hardship,” she said, adding that the program has already facilitated free deliveries and essential services for thousands.

Dr. Agala further encouraged broad participation, noting that the program offers packages beyond children’s homes, including options for low-income workers, drivers, and cooks. For children under five, the Basic Health Care Provision Fund covers key services, and the SIM JARA plan, priced at ₦15,000 annually, provides comprehensive medical coverage accessible through local health centers.

She expressed gratitude to Governor Fubara and Health Commissioner Dr. Adaeze Oreh for their dedication to expanding healthcare access and making the program a success, urging all Rivers residents to take advantage of the available packages.