The Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of the Imo State Health Insurance Agency (IMSHIA), Prof. Uchenna Ewelike, joined global health leaders, policymakers, researchers, and development partners at the 79th World Health Assembly held in Geneva, Switzerland, from May 16 to 23, 2026.
As part of the Nigerian delegation, Prof. Uchenna Ewelike a renowned health systems economist participated in high-level discussions on health financing, universal health coverage, health security, and the growing call for health sovereignty among developing countries.
Prof. Ewelike’s participation comes following an invitation by the Global fund to attend the high-level side event on Health Governance and Sustainable Health Financing at Geneva which brought together member states and development partners to share experiences and explore practical solutions for strengthening health systems.
Reflecting on the Assembly, Prof. Ewelike noted that global health conversations are increasingly focused on sustainable financing and greater self-reliance, particularly for countries in the Global South which includes Nigeria.
During the Assembly issues on the growing need for health sovereignty in Africa were discussed. These discussions highlighted the urgent need for greater investment in local production of health commodities and sustainable health financing, especially as Africa bears a significant share of the global disease burden which constitutes the greatest burden on healthcare cost.
Another memorable engagement was with Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu, Executive Director for Health Emergencies at WHO Headquarters and one of Nigeria’s leading public health experts. Prof. Ewelike acknowledged Dr. Ihekweazu’s longstanding encouragement and support for the work of IMSHIA, noting that their discussions provided valuable insights into strengthening health systems and improving healthcare outcomes.
Prof. Ewelike expressed appreciation to the Honourable Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate; the Director-General of the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), Dr. Kelechi Ohiri; and Governor Hope Uzodimma for their leadership and commitment to advancing healthcare in Nigeria.
He noted that the knowledge, partnerships, and insights gained from the World Health Assembly would further support ongoing efforts to expand health insurance coverage, deepen financial risk protection, and reduce health-related poverty in Imo State, particularly among vulnerable populations.
According to him, the experience reaffirmed the importance of learning from global best practices while developing local solutions that address the realities of the people.
“We must continue to think globally and act locally,” Prof. Ewelike said. “The lessons from Geneva will strengthen our resolve to ensure that more people in Imo State can access quality healthcare without suffering financial hardship.”
Prof. Ewelike’s participation at the World Health Assembly does not only showcase Imo State’s growing voice in national and global health discussions but also reinforced the state’s commitment to building a resilient, equitable, and sustainable healthcare system for all.
