The Governor of Imo State, His Excellency Distinguished Senator (Dr) Hope Uzodimma, has been nationally honoured for his exemplary leadership and impact in health insurance and managed care. The recognition came during the Health Insurance and Managed Care Leadership Award Ceremony organized by the Institute for Health Insurance and Managed Care Nigeria, held on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, at Merit House, Maitama, Abuja and themed “Selecting the Best for Universal Health Coverage in Nigeria,” the event acknowledged trailblazers and institutions driving sustainable health coverage across the nation.
Imo State was celebrated as the Best Health Insurance and Managed Care Government Agency in Provider Network and Performance Management 2025.
Receiving the award on behalf of the state, the Honourable Commissioner for Health, Primary Health, Health Insurance and Social Services, Dr. Chioma Vivian Egu attributed the feat to the strategic leadership of Governor Uzodimma and the hard work of the dedicated team at the Imo State Health Insurance Agency (IMSHIA).
Also speaking at the event, the Executive Secretary/CEO of IMSHIA, Dr. Uchenna Ewelike, expressed gratitude to the Institute for the recognition. Dr Ewelike reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to expanding population coverage and improving access to quality healthcare in alignment with the Governor’s health insurance policy.
Dr. Ewelike noted that the Agency has recorded a major leap in health insurance enrollment, stating from an initial 0% coverage to 3.4% of the total Imo State population across four tailored programs designed for various population cohorts while attributing the growth to stakeholders’ confidence, consistent efforts by the IMSHIA team, and the unwavering support of His Excellency, Governor Hope Uzodimma.”
Dr Ewelike who highlighted key achievements of the Agency, added that as of today, IMSHIA has managed 381,394 cases on BHCPF alone with an average monthly utilization of 35- 40%, seen to be the highest recorded nationally. He noted that from April 2023 to April 2025 the agency has recorded over 4000 deliveries out of which about 1200 were assisted deliveries mainly cesarean section with one maternal death. “This significant milestone on reduction of maternal mortality aligned with Goal 3 of the Sustainable Development Goals and the shared prosperity government in Imo State.” Dr Ewelike remarked.
The event was graced by distinguished dignitaries including the Honourable Minister of State for Humanitarian Services, Dr. Tanko Sununu, Special Assistant to the President on Health, Dr. Ammar Annas, Chairman of the Institute of Health Insurance and Managed Care, Dr. Hope Weja, CEOs of various State Social Health Insurance Agencies, and other notable health sector leaders.
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