By Solomon OKPO
Akwa Ibom State has clinched national recognition in the healthcare sector as its Health Insurance Agency (AKSHIA) was named the Fastest Growing Agency in Health Care Coverage for 2025 by the Institute of Health Insurance and Managed Care.
The award was presented to Governor Umo Eno at the State Executive Council Chambers in Uyo on Wednesday, April 16, shortly after he swore in Mr. Uduak Isaac as a new Permanent Secretary in the State Civil Service.
Governor Eno, receiving the award from the State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Emmanuel John—who was accompanied by the Chairman of the AKSHIA Governing Board, Dr. Edikan Ekwere, and Executive Secretary, Dr. Arthur Igbemi—commended the team for their dedication and urged them to intensify efforts in delivering quality healthcare services.
The Health Commissioner noted that the award followed AKSHIA’s outstanding performance since the launch of the State Health Insurance Scheme on September 20, 2024. The scheme was designed to provide accessible and affordable healthcare to all residents of the state.
According to him, over 47,000 residents have already been enrolled, with plans in motion to expand coverage to more than 52,000 civil servants and their dependents. He added that the recognition is a testament to the proactive leadership and innovative policies of the Umo Eno administration in health sector reform.
Governor Eno reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to prioritizing the welfare of Akwa Ibom people through sustained investment in healthcare and other critical sectors.
