House Leadership Backs Journalists’ Welfare with Health Insurance Initiative

More than 100 journalists covering the House of Representatives have been enrolled into the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Health Insurance Scheme under a one-year sponsorship funded by the Chairman of the House Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Akintunde Rotimi.

‎At the symbolic presentation of enrollment identity cards at the National Assembly Complex, Mr Rotimi said the gesture was aimed at improving the wellbeing and enhancing productivity of journalists covering the House.
‎
He described the intervention as a support in strengthening journalists’ welfare and the House’s recognition of the Press Corps as essential stakeholders in Nigeria’s democratic process, as well as
‎a drive toward universal health coverage.
‎
‎“The House considers members of the Press Corps as critical partners in our legislative work, for them to effectively carry out their duties, it is important that we prioritize their health and wellbeing.”

‎Rotimi said access to affordable and quality healthcare was necessary for journalists who often work long hours covering parliamentary proceedings and informing citizens about government activities.

‎The House Spokesperson noted that the nature of journalism, particularly legislative reporting, can be demanding and leaves little time for personal care, making health insurance coverage vital.

In a remark, the Mandate Secretary of the FCT Health Services and Environment Secretariat, Dr. Dolapo Fasawe, who commended the leadership of the House for priority to the health of the journalists pointed out that such a move was a significant contribution to expanding healthcare access.
‎
Dr. Fasawe, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Dr Baba-Gaba Adam, the Mandate Secretary encouraged individuals and organisations to sponsor health insurance for others.

In a goodwill message, the Chairperson of the Nigeria Union of Journalists Federal Capital Territory Council, Grace Ike, said the initiative highlights the critical role of journalists in democratic governance, noting that improved welfare would strengthen professionalism and accountability in the media.

The Chairman of the House of Representatives Press Corps, Gboyega Onadiran, welcomed the initiative and urged other professional bodies to adopt similar measures.

Some beneficiaries described the initiative as a demonstration of how lawmakers, health authorities, and the media can work together to promote journalists’ welfare.

Oduyemi Odumade, Edited By Grace Namiji