The Kwara State Health Insurance Agency (KW-HIA) on Tuesday conducted a community sensitisation campaign in Offa Local Government Area, urging residents to register for the state's health insurance scheme to expand coverage and access to healthcare.

Leading the outreach at the Igbo-Oro Primary Health Centre in Offa, the Executive Secretary of KW-HIA, Dr Olubunmi Jetawo-Winter, stated that continuous public engagement is vital for driving enrolment and sustaining healthcare service utilization across communities.

Dr Jetawo-Winter highlighted the role of the health insurance scheme in mitigating out-of-pocket medical expenses, noting that conventional fee-for-service arrangements covering consultations, diagnostics, medications, and hospital admissions often place significant financial strain on households.

"Health insurance allows beneficiaries to save more money for other personal and family responsibilities while ensuring access to essential healthcare services," she stated.

She disclosed that over 3,000 residents in Offa Local Government Area have been onboarded onto the scheme, calling on existing beneficiaries and local stakeholders to encourage wider participation.

The KW-HIA boss commended Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for his investments in the state's health sector, noting that structural improvements, equipment supply, medical provisions, and staffing upgrades continue to strengthen the insurance system.

Also speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Health, Dr Amina Ahmed El-Imam, urged residents to register for health coverage while healthy, describing the scheme as a key mechanism toward achieving universal health coverage.

Dr El-Imam revealed that over 100,000 Kwarans have been enrolled across the state, adding that the framework includes protective packages designed for indigent and vulnerable citizens.

The Olofa of Offa, HRM Oba Mufutau Gbadamosi Esuwoye II, was represented at the event by Chief AbdulRahman Gafar. The event was also attended by the Kwara State Coordinator for the National Health Insurance Agency (NHIA), Mrs Idayat Bello Olaitan, alongside traditional chiefs, religious leaders, and scheme beneficiaries who gave testimonials on the impact of the program.