The Akwa Ibom State Health Insurance Agency (AKSHIA) earned the title of ‘Fastest Growing Agency in Health Care Coverage in 2025’ from the Institute of Health Insurance and Managed Care. The award ceremony took place in Abuja on Tuesday, celebrating AKSHIA’s significant strides in expanding healthcare access.
Paving the Way for Universal Health Coverage in Nigeria
Dr. Hope Uweja, Chairman of the Institute, commended the State Health Insurance Schemes for driving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) across Nigeria. He recognized these schemes as critical in making healthcare more accessible to Nigerians.
ARISECare Programme Sees Rapid Growth
Dr. Arthur Igbemi, Executive Secretary of AKSHIA, accepted the award. He shared that the ARISECare programme, launched in September 2024, has already enrolled over 47,000 residents. The program is expanding to cover over 52,000 civil servants and their families, with plans to reach 200,000 people.
Governor Umo Eno’s Key Role in Success
Dr. Igbemi credited Governor Umo Eno for his continuous support and vision, which have driven the agency’s success. Governor Eno’s commitment to improving healthcare in Akwa Ibom has played a crucial role in expanding health insurance coverage.
Healthcare Infrastructure Expands Across Akwa Ibom
Under Governor Eno’s leadership, the state is developing key healthcare projects. These include the Medical City, an emergency services unit, and new Primary Healthcare Centres aimed at improving the state’s healthcare infrastructure.
Leaders Celebrate the Achievement
Dr. Edikan Ekwere, Chairman of AKSHIA’s Governing Board, expressed his pride in the award. He thanked Governor Eno for his steadfast support. Mr. Aniekan Akpan, Permanent Secretary of the Akwa Ibom Liaison Office, also praised the governor’s proactive efforts in launching the state’s health insurance program.
Looking Ahead: A Future of Expanding Healthcare
With continued leadership and support, AKSHIA is set to expand healthcare coverage even further. The success of the ARISECare programme is a significant step toward achieving Universal Health Coverage for Akwa Ibom and Nigeria as a whole.
