Members of the House of Representatives Press Corps have been enrolled in the Federal Capital Territory Health Insurance Scheme following the sponsorship of one-year health coverage by House Spokesperson
Members of the House of Representatives Press Corps have been enrolled in the Federal Capital Territory Health Insurance Scheme following the sponsorship of one-year health coverage by the Chairman of the House Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Rep. Akin Rotimi.
The symbolic presentation of enrolment identity cards was held at the National Assembly Complex, with stakeholders describing the intervention as a significant boost to journalists’ welfare and a practical contribution to Nigeria’s quest for universal health coverage.
Speaking at the event, Rep. Rotimi said the initiative reflected the commitment of the 10th House of Representatives to deepen engagement with the media while prioritising the wellbeing of journalists who cover legislative activities.
He acknowledged the support of the Speaker of the House, Abbas Tajudeen, noting that the press corps remains a critical stakeholder in the legislative process.
According to him, the intervention recognises the demanding nature of parliamentary reporting, which often involves long hours and intense pressure.
“We consider them a very critical stakeholder in the legislative affairs of this country,” Rep. Rotimi said, stressing that good health is essential for journalists to continue discharging their constitutional responsibilities.
He urged beneficiaries to embrace preventive healthcare, including routine medical screening and early detection, explaining that the scheme was designed to provide sustainable access to quality healthcare while encouraging broader participation in health insurance across society.
“What you’re seeing today is a step in the direction that we hope others will take the cue from,” he added.
In her remarks, the Mandate Secretary of the FCT Health Services and Environment Secretariat, Dolapo Fasawe, described the sponsorship as a major contribution to expanding healthcare access in the Federal Capital Territory.
She was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Baba-Gaba Adam.
Fasawe said the intervention aligned with the FCT Health Insurance Scheme’s Adopt and Enrol programme, which encourages individuals and organisations to sponsor health insurance for others. She noted that the scheme provides access to quality healthcare at an annual premium of ₦22,500 per person and called on other leaders and institutions to emulate the gesture.
Chairman of the House Committee on Nutrition and Food Security, Rep. Chike Okafor, described the initiative as historic and commended the leadership of the 10th Assembly for supporting it. He underscored the importance of health insurance in shielding citizens from catastrophic healthcare costs, describing it as one of the most effective tools for expanding access and improving welfare outcomes.
In a goodwill message, Chairperson of the FCT Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Grace Ike, said the initiative highlighted the central role of journalists in democratic governance. She noted that improved welfare would enhance professionalism, accountability and the quality of public discourse.
Similarly, Chairman of the Press Corps, Gboyega Onadiran, described the programme as a practical step toward universal health coverage, thanking Rotimi and the FCT health authorities for the collaboration that made it possible. He urged organisations and professional bodies to prioritise the health of their members through structured health insurance schemes.
Participants at the event said the intervention demonstrated how legislative leadership, health authorities and the media can collaborate to advance public welfare while strengthening democratic institutions.
