The Abia State Government has approved the formal rollout of the State Insurance Scheme for civil servants.
This was announced by the Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, on Monday, during a press briefing at the Government House, Umuahia, following this week’s Executive Council meeting chaired by Governor Alex Otti.
He informed that the government has provided a N500m counterpart fund for the scheme.
“By this development, all the state civil servants are supposed to enrol in the scheme.
“In his usual compassionate manner, His Excellency has agreed to provide a 2.5 per cent contribution by the workers needed to enrol in the scheme for the first 3 months.
“Usually, they are supposed to contribute 5 per cent from their basic salary every month.
“His Excellency has agreed to pay 2.5 per cent of that instead of 5 per cent to encourage them to enrol in the scheme.
“Thereafter, after 3 months, the workers will provide the contribution themselves.
“This will enable them to enjoy medical services from the health providers,” he explained.
In addition to the insurance scheme, Kanu revealed that the government has approved a comprehensive upgrade and remodelling of the Abia State University Teaching Hospital (ABSUTH), Aba, to a befitting medical institution adding that the remodelling aligns with Governor Otti’s transformation agenda in the health sector.
He further disclosed that the State Specialist Hospital has regained accreditation from the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria for the training of medical interns. This accreditation has increased the training quota from 24 to 36 such personnel.
On infrastructure, Kanu announced the completion of rehabilitation work on vandalised power installations at the old and new secretariats in Ogurube Layout. The installations are set to be commissioned by the governor next week.
He also said that as part of the ‘Light Up Abia’ initiative, solar light installations are ongoing in over 28 locations across the state.
Additionally, the state’s road infrastructure agenda will gain momentum on November 25, when Governor Otti will flag off the construction of the Ntigha-Mbawsi-Umuala road in Isialangwa North Local Government Area.
The press briefing was attended by the Commissioner for Power, Monday Ikechukwu; the Commissioner for Health, Prof. Enoch; and the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media, Mr. Ferdinand Ekeoma.