By Kingsley Agim

The resolve of the Cross River State Health Insurance Agency to midwife Health Insurance in the State has gained further impetus, as the Commander, 13 Brigade Headquarters of the Nigerian Army, Brigadier General M. A. Abdullahi, today, March 17 2021, assured of the Army’s readiness to partner with the Agency to ensure the safety of all stakeholders and the smooth conduct of enrollment and other activities of the Scheme.

Brigadier General Abdulahi gave the assurance when he paid a courtesy visit,  on the Management of the Cross River State Health Insurance Agency in Calabar.

Congratulating the State on the flag-off of AYADECARE, the Army Commander commended the CRSHIA for the well-organised event, adding that the essence of his visit was, partly, to tap into the Midas touch of the Agency.

The 13 Brigade Chief cautioned against large crowd at enrollment centres, and called on the Agency to adequately furnish security agencies whenever it becomes necessary and unavoidable for a large crowd to gather, to enable Security Agencies provide adequate cover for the enrolees.

In his response, the Director-General of the Agency, Chief Godwin Iyala, expressed delight at the visit and thanked the Brigadier General for the commendation which he sees as an indication that CRSHIA is on the right track.

Chief Iyala attributed the smooth takeoff  of the Health Insurance Scheme to Governor Ben Ayade’s penchance for perfection and special zeal for the enthronement of quality, affordable and accessible health care for Cross Riverians and residents of the State in general.

“As a Governor who gives priority to the health and well-being of the citizens, he ensures that no stone is left unturned in the match towards successfully enthroning Universal Health Coverage in the State,” Iyala remarked.

The DG, called for the Army’s partnership, and maintained that the success of the CRSHIA and the Scheme also lies in the hands of Security Agencies. He beckoned on the Brigadier General to avail his officers and men the opportunity to enrol into the AYADECARE Scheme, which boasts of a robust Benefit Package that can take care of most of the health challenges of the officers and Men of the Armed Forces.

The CRSHIA boss assured the Commander that his Agency would adhere strictly to security tips offered, as the State will not allow any Miscreant or group of hoodlums to take undue advantage, cause mayhem or pogrom to such a plausible scheme meant for the good and well-being of humanity.

The DG further wished the Brigade Commander a successful tour of duty as he strives to maintain peace and order, which the State is well known for.