The Rivers State Contributory Health Protection Programme (RIVCHPP) has marked its second anniversary, celebrating two years of providing quality medical services and alleviating financial hardship for residents across the State.
Although established through the Rivers State Law 3 of 2021, the agency became fully operational on 3rd February 2024, following a direct mandate from the Executive Governor, Sir Siminialayi Fubara, GSSRS. Since its activation, the scheme has transitioned from a policy framework into a life-saving reality for thousands of enrollees across all 23 Local Government Areas.
In a statement marking the anniversary, the Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of RIVCHPP, Dr Vetty Rolegherighan Agala, commended Governor Fubara for “choosing people over postponement.” She noted that the Governor’s decision to operationalise the agency has translated into tangible outcomes where lives are being saved daily.
“With RIVCHPP becoming operational, children are being safely delivered and adults are receiving treatment for illnesses that would once have pushed families into debt or despair,” Dr Agala remarked. She further observed that in just two years, the institution has matured into a robust system where coverage is expanding steadily and public trust has deepened.
Looking towards the future, the Executive Secretary announced that the agency intends to enrol at least one million lives by 2026. This expansion forms a critical component of the State’s journey towards achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC). Dr Agala emphasised that the agency would work tirelessly to ensure that the quality of care remains a priority for every beneficiary.
She also acknowledged the purposeful stewardship of the Ministry of Health under the leadership of Dr Adaeze Chidinma Oreh. The Commissioner’s reform-oriented mindset was credited with strengthening health financing and service delivery throughout the State.
As part of the anniversary celebrations and its commitment to social welfare, RIVCHPP has introduced several new initiatives:
Maternal Support: Pregnant women will now be enrolled free of charge at all Primary Health Centres across Rivers State under the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund (BHCPF).
RIVCARE Discount: Throughout the month of February, couples wishing to register under the RIVCARE plan will benefit from a discounted rate of ₦45,000, reduced from the standard ₦50,000.
The Executive Secretary expressed profound gratitude to Governor Siminialayi Fubara, the Deputy Governor, Prof. Ngozi Mma Odu, and the Commissioner for Health, Dr Adaeze Chidinma Oreh, for their unwavering guidance and support.
Through these concerted efforts, RIVCHPP continues to demonstrate that structured health insurance is the most effective tool for protecting citizens from the catastrophic costs of medical emergencies, ensuring a healthier and more productive Rivers State.
Source: Idanye Oruigoni Head, Information/Public Relations Unit, RIVCHPP
