By Abdullateef Bamgbose
Former Minister of Aviation and Chancellor of Athena Centre for Policy and Leadership, Chief Osita Chidoka has announced the provision of one year free health insurance for over 1,000 youths and women in Obosi community, under Nneka Chidoka Outreach Programme.
This initiative, undertaken in partnership with the Anambra State Health Insurance Agency, reflects Chidoka’s enduring commitment to expand access to affordable healthcare and support state-led programmes that promote public welfare.
The announcement was made during an outing visit in his country home by the newly formed Ositadimma Age Grade, young men and women born in 1985 and 1986, who adopted Chidoka’s name in recognition of his leadership and service to Obosi.
Chidoka disclosed that over 300 members of Ositadimma Age Grade would be enrolled immediately into the Anambra State Health Insurance Scheme at N12,500 per person, with other civic youth organisations in Obosi to follow shortly, bringing the total number of beneficiaries to over 1,000.
“Health insurance is not a luxury. It is a civic right and a public good.
“I am proud to support the Anambra State government’s efforts to make quality healthcare accessible to our people,” Chidoka stated.
Beyond healthcare, the former minister outlined a four-point agenda to guide the age grade’s activities and ensure its long-term contribution to community development.
These include full embracement of the Anambra State Health Insurance Scheme and encourage wider enrolment beyond the group; establishment of a cooperative savings scheme that will enable the group to undertake a significant community project by their 10th anniversary; as well as put in place a group life insurance policy to provide social protection and ensure mutual support in times of adversity.
To support the savings initiative, Chidoka donated N500,000 as seed capital for the age grade’s fund, to be lodged with Adike Microfinance Bank, Obosi.
Chiefs Mgbakogu and Udemba donated N150,000 and N200,000, while various sums were donated by other chiefs present.
Describing the age-grade system as a uniquely Igbo institution for social progress, Chief Chidoka called on the group to sustain the tradition through innovation, collective responsibility and a deep sense of service.
In appreciation, the age grade presented Chidoka with an award of honour, in recognition of his visionary leadership, philanthropy and enduring commitment to youth empowerment and community development.
