FCT Expands Health Coverage for Journalists

Abuja – The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has announced a significant expansion of health insurance coverage for journalists working in the capital region, bringing nearly 480 media professionals under the umbrella of the FCT Health Insurance Scheme (FHIS).

The announcement was made yesterday by Dr. Adedolapo Fasawoye, the Permanent Secretary of the FCT Ministry of Health and Environment, during the inauguration of the new health insurance initiative for journalists in Abuja. Addressing an audience of media personnel, philanthropists, political leaders, religious figures, and members of the business community, Dr. Fasawoye urged collective support for the scheme, emphasising the importance of accessible healthcare for all.

“Primary healthcare is not a luxury; it is a fundamental right,” Dr. Fasawoye stated. “Health is a shared responsibility, and services must be accessible, affordable, and available to everyone.” He added that an additional 50 health insurance slots have been made available specifically for journalists, which will further broaden their access to essential healthcare services.

Currently, of the estimated 800 journalists operating within the FCT, approximately 480 have been enrolled in the scheme, with plans underway to extend coverage to the entire journalist community in the near future. Dr. Fasawoye also called on political and religious leaders, as well as private citizens, to purchase health insurance for journalists, noting that such contributions amplify the voices and wellbeing of media professionals.

Under the leadership of Minister Nyesom Wike, the FCTA has prioritised improving healthcare services, particularly targeting reductions in maternal and infant mortality. The administration has implemented a zero-tolerance policy for maternal deaths and ensures that vulnerable and low-income pregnant women in FCT primary healthcare centres receive free antenatal, delivery, and, where necessary, caesarean services.

Grace Ike, Chairman of the NUJ FCT Council, described the initiative as a major advancement in the welfare of journalists. She expressed gratitude to House of Representatives Committee Chairman Anu Ekin Rotimi Jr. for supporting the programme and praised the FCT Ministry of Health for providing 150 free health insurance slots to NUJ members. Additionally, Dr. Babagana Adam personally pledged coverage for 50 journalists in memory of his late brother, Mohammed Alkali.

Comrade Alhassan Yahya, National President of NUJ, emphasised the urgent need for such initiatives, noting that fewer than one percent of Nigerian journalists currently have health insurance. “This programme will play a vital role in reducing medical expenses and making quality healthcare more accessible for media professionals,” he added.

Health Insurance Beneficiaries (FCT Journalists)

This initiative represents a landmark step in ensuring the welfare of journalists, reflecting a broader commitment by the FCTA to uphold healthcare as a universal right while strengthening the resilience of Nigeria’s media community.