By Anne Azuka
The Director-General of the Delta State Contributory Health Commission (DSCHC), Dr. Isaac Akpoveta, has received an Award of Excellence in recognition of his contributions to the implementation of social health insurance in Nigeria.
The award was presented at the closing ceremony of the 2026 National Summit of State Social Health Insurance Agencies (SSHIA) held in Akure, Ondo State.
The summit brought together heads of State Social Health Insurance Agencies, policymakers, development partners and healthcare providers to review progress made in the sector and explore strategies for advancing Universal Health Coverage (UHC) across the country.
Presenting the award, the Chairman of SSHIA and Director-General of the Katsina State Contributory Healthcare Management Agency, Mr. Mohammed Safana, commended Akpoveta for his leadership and commitment to expanding access to healthcare through social health insurance.
Safana noted that Delta State has recorded significant progress in health insurance coverage, enrolment, service delivery and the protection of vulnerable populations under Akpoveta’s leadership.
The award also recognised his contributions to innovative healthcare financing initiatives and efforts aimed at strengthening partnerships that support the growth of social health insurance in Nigeria.
Participants at the summit described Akpoveta as a strong advocate of sustainable healthcare financing and equitable access to quality healthcare services.
Speaking after receiving the award, Akpoveta dedicated the honour to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, the Delta State Government, healthcare workers, development partners and the staff of the Delta State Contributory Health Commission.
He said the recognition would inspire the commission to intensify efforts toward expanding health insurance coverage and improving access to healthcare services for residents of the state.
Akpoveta reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to supporting national Universal Health Coverage goals, stressing that health insurance remains a critical tool for reducing out-of-pocket healthcare expenses and protecting families from financial hardship arising from medical costs.
The summit featured panel discussions, exhibitions and knowledge-sharing sessions focused on increasing enrolment, enhancing service quality and ensuring sustainable financing for state health insurance schemes across Nigeria.
