The House of Representatives has enrolled accredited journalists covering its proceedings in the Federal Capital Territory Health Insurance Scheme after the Chairman of the House Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Akin Rotimi, paid their one-year premiums.
The presentation of enrolment identity cards took place at the National Assembly Complex in Abuja, where beneficiaries described the move as a significant boost to journalists’ welfare and a step toward advancing universal health coverage in Nigeria.
Speaking at the ceremony, Rotimi, a member of the All Progressives Congress, said the initiative reflects the 10th Assembly’s commitment to strengthening its relationship with the media and prioritising the wellbeing of correspondents assigned to the legislature.
He acknowledged the support of the Speaker of the House, Abbas Tajudeen, noting that members of the Press Corps play a vital role in the legislative process.
Rotimi said the scheme recognises the demanding nature of journalism, particularly for reporters who work long hours covering parliamentary activities.
He urged journalists to prioritise their health, stressing that a healthy press corps is essential for sustaining effective legislative coverage and democratic accountability.
According to him, the initiative is designed to promote sustainable access to healthcare and encourage wider participation in health insurance coverage across the country.
Also speaking, 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 territory.
Represented by the Permanent Secretary, Baba-Gaba Adam, she commended Rotimi for enrolling the entire House of Representatives Press Corps in the scheme for one year, describing the gesture as visionary and compassionate.
Fasawe explained that the initiative aligns with the scheme’s “Adopt and Enrol” programme, which encourages individuals and organisations to sponsor health insurance coverage for others.
She noted that the scheme provides quality healthcare services at an annual premium of ₦22,500 per person and called on leaders and institutions to emulate the example to reduce out-of-pocket medical expenses.
The Chairman of the House Committee on Nutrition and Food Security, Chike Okafor, described the development as historic and praised the leadership of the 10th Assembly for backing the intervention. He emphasised the importance of health insurance in protecting citizens from catastrophic medical bills.
In a goodwill message, the Chairperson of the FCT Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Grace Ike, said the initiative highlights the crucial role journalists play in democratic governance.
She stressed that health insurance provides essential protection for media professionals who work under pressure, tight deadlines, and constant exposure to risks.
Similarly, the Chairman of the House of Representatives Press Corps, Gboyega Onadiran, described the enrolment as a practical contribution to achieving universal health coverage, noting that journalists regularly witness the financial hardship faced by Nigerians without access to affordable healthcare.
He said the scheme would provide much-needed relief and security for members of the Press Corps as they continue their duties.
