The House of Representatives has enrolled accredited journalists covering its proceedings into the Federal Capital Territory Health Insurance Scheme.

The initiative followed the sponsorship of a one-year premium by the Chairman of the House Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Akin Rotimi.

A symbolic presentation of enrollment identity cards took place at the National Assembly Complex.

Participants at the event described the move as a significant boost to journalists’ welfare and a step toward Nigeria’s goal of achieving universal health coverage.

Akin Rotimi, a member of the All Progressives Congress, addressed the gathering and explained the purpose of the intervention.

He said the action demonstrates the 10th Assembly’s commitment to stronger media engagement and the wellbeing of reporters assigned to cover the legislature.

Rotimi acknowledged the support of the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen.

He emphasised the indispensable role of the Press Corps in the legislative process.

Rotimi recognised the challenging conditions faced by journalists who often work extended hours.

“We consider them a very critical stakeholder in the legislative affairs of this country. You do a lot of work. And I know sometimes up until 9, 10 in the night, you take a lot of time doing this work.

“Sometimes, you get home tired. You don’t prioritise yourself trying to ensure that you’re doing your constitutional mandate.

“But sometimes, you have to look out for yourself. Because we need you to be strong and healthy to be able to continue to discharge your mandate,” he said.

Rotimi explained that the scheme promotes sustainable access to healthcare and aims to encourage wider participation in health insurance coverage.

“What you’re seeing today is a step in the direction that we hope others will take a cue from,” he said.

The Mandate Secretary of the FCT Health Services and Environment Secretariat, Dolapo Fasawe, described the sponsorship as a major contribution to expanding healthcare access in the Federal Capital Territory.

She was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Baba-Gaba Adam.

“We appreciate the Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Akin Rotimi, for his remarkable and generous decision to enroll the entire Press Corps of the Nigeria House of Representatives into the FCT Health Insurance Scheme for one full year.”

Fasawe noted that the initiative aligns with the scheme’s “Adopt and Enroll” programme, which encourages sponsorship of health insurance for others.

“This noble gesture is not only commendable; it is visionary. By voluntarily sponsoring the health insurance coverage of the press corps, Rotimi has demonstrated exemplary leadership, compassion, and a deep commitment to the welfare of those who serve our nation through information and public accountability.

“A healthy press is vital to a healthy democracy, and this act ensures that those who keep us informed can access quality healthcare without financial hardship,” she added.

Fasawe stated that the scheme offers quality healthcare services at an annual premium of ₦22,500 per person.

She urged other leaders and institutions to follow this example.

“Through shared responsibility and social solidarity, we can reduce out-of-pocket spending and build a healthier, more productive society,” she stressed.

The Chairman of the House Committee on Nutrition and Food Security, Chike Okafor, called the intervention historic.

He commended the leadership of the 10th Assembly for its support.

“I am particularly pleased that it is happening in the 10th Assembly,” he said.

Okafor, a former Chairman of the House Committee on Healthcare Services, highlighted how health insurance protects citizens from catastrophic medical expenses.

“My purpose here is to support my friend and colleague as he marks this important milestone of enrolling over one hundred members of the Press Corps into a health insurance programme,” he said.

In a goodwill message, the Chairperson of the FCT Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Grace Ike, said the initiative recognises the vital role of journalists in democratic governance.

“Health insurance is not a luxury; it is protection. Media professionals work under intense pressure, tight deadlines, constant mobility, exposure to risks, and the mental strain that comes with covering governance and national issues.

“When journalists are healthy and secure, they are better positioned to discharge their duties with clarity, courage, and professionalism,” she said.

Ike added that the programme strengthens democratic engagement by supporting those who deliver credible public information.

The Chairman of the House of Representatives Press Corps, Gboyega Onadiran, described the enrolment as a practical step toward universal health coverage in Nigeria.

“Health insurance remains one of the most effective tools to protect families from catastrophic health expenses. As journalists, we are witnesses to the realities many Nigerians face when healthcare is not affordable,” he said.