The Akwa Ibom State Health Insurance Agency (AKSHIA) has received recognition for its impactful contributions to healthcare delivery and humanitarian services in Nigeria.
The recognition came with the induction of its Executive Secretary, Dr. Arthur Igbemi, into the African Leadership for Development and Humanitarian Service Hall of Fame by the Humanitarian Institute of Peace and Community Development.
The honour was presented during a ceremony held on Sunday in Abuja.
Speaking at the event, the institute’s Executive Director, Samuel Ugoh, praised the agency’s performance under Igbemi, describing it as a vital support system for residents of Akwa Ibom State.
He highlighted the importance of access to essential needs such as food, healthcare, and shelter, noting that the agency had demonstrated strong commitment to improving healthcare access across the state.
Ugoh emphasised that vulnerable groups, who previously struggled to afford quality healthcare, were now benefiting from inclusive policies, which align with the core objectives of governance.
Drawing from over a decade of experience in humanitarian work, he said the agency’s achievements had made a significant difference in the lives of ordinary citizens.
He further explained that award recipients were selected based on tangible societal impact driven by purposeful and selfless leadership.
Ugoh added that this year’s honourees were chosen from various sectors for their quiet but meaningful contributions to improving lives, a standard he said Igbemi clearly met.
In his response, Igbemi dedicated the recognition to Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, commending his commitment to strengthening healthcare delivery.
He explained that the state’s health insurance scheme, introduced in September 2024, was designed to make healthcare more affordable and accessible to residents.
According to him, within a short period, services under the ARISECare programme have reached hundreds of thousands of people across all 31 local government areas of the state.
He noted that the initiative has helped ensure that residents, regardless of their social or economic background, can access functional healthcare services when needed.
Igbemi attributed the agency’s progress to the administration’s focus on health and social welfare as key priorities.
He also referenced other initiatives, including the Medical City project and the Golden Initiative for All (GIFA), as part of broader efforts to improve living conditions and empower citizens.
Also speaking, Isijaan Adasi-Ene, Director of Administration at Utono Obolo Worldwide, commended Igbemi for his contributions to the health sector, describing the recognition as well deserved.
He noted that Igbemi had remained selective about honours, choosing only those that reflect genuine impact, particularly in underserved communities.
Adasi-Ene further expressed appreciation to the state governor for supporting Igbemi and pledged continued backing for the administration’s development efforts.
The ceremony also recognised 17 individuals from different sectors, including health, housing, hospitality, and social welfare, for their contributions to society.
It featured the unveiling of the Majesty Charity Education Foundation, while the organising institute reaffirmed its commitment to promoting peace, social justice, and good governance through the recognition of impactful leaders and institutions.