In a significant move to enhance healthcare access for underserved populations, Dr. Eric Odo, the Chairman of Igbo-Etiti Local Government Area (LGA) in Enugu State, announced that the council has successfully enrolled 1,000 indigent residents into the Enugu State Universal Health Insurance Scheme. This landmark initiative, aimed at providing quality healthcare to the less privileged, was revealed during a courtesy visit by a delegation from the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital (UNTH) to the council’s headquarters in Ogbede on Thursday, October 2, 2025.
Dr. Odo emphasized that the enrollment of 1,000 indigent residents into the state’s health insurance scheme is a cornerstone of his administration’s commitment to ensuring equitable access to healthcare services. He described the initiative as a deliberate effort to bridge the gap between the underserved and quality medical care, underscoring that proactive and empathetic leadership is essential for driving meaningful change in communities. “This is about making bold, people-oriented decisions that uplift the lives of our people,” Odo stated, highlighting his administration’s focus on prioritizing the welfare of the most vulnerable residents in Igbo-Etiti LGA.
The chairman’s announcement reflects a broader vision of transformative governance that seeks to redefine the socio-economic landscape of Igbo-Etiti. Odo, who assumed office with a clear mandate to bring about significant improvements in the LGA, reiterated his commitment to inclusive governance and sustainable development. He explained that his leadership approach is rooted in empathy, courage, and a determination to challenge outdated systems that have hindered progress in the past. “I was elected to transform Igbo-Etiti and redefine its past,” he declared, signaling his intent to leave a lasting legacy of development and empowerment.
A key pillar of Odo’s administration is its open-door policy, which ensures that all residents, regardless of their educational background or economic status, have a voice in the decision-making processes that affect their lives. This inclusive approach, according to Odo, fosters a sense of belonging and ensures that development efforts are tailored to the needs of the entire community. By prioritizing accessibility and engagement, the council aims to create an environment where every resident feels valued and empowered to contribute to the LGA’s growth.
During the visit by the UNTH delegation, Odo also outlined his administration’s broader goals, which extend beyond healthcare to include infrastructure development and economic revitalization. He assured the visiting medical professionals that his team is working diligently to address critical infrastructure needs, such as roads, water supply, and public facilities, which are essential for improving the quality of life in Igbo-Etiti. Additionally, Odo highlighted the council’s efforts to boost the local economy, with the aim of contributing meaningfully to Enugu State’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). By focusing on economic empowerment and job creation, the administration seeks to create a ripple effect that will benefit both the LGA and the state at large.
The visit by the UNTH delegation provided an opportunity for collaboration between the council and the medical community. Dr. Uchenna Okechi, Head of the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at UNTH, commended Odo for his visionary leadership and strong connection to the grassroots. Okechi described the chairman as a leader with a clear understanding of the needs of his people, noting that his election has brought renewed hope to the residents of Igbo-Etiti. He congratulated Odo on his electoral victory and expressed optimism about the positive changes his administration is poised to deliver.
Okechi also used the occasion to pledge the support of his department in advancing the council’s governance objectives. He urged Odo to involve the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery in the LGA’s development initiatives, particularly in areas related to healthcare delivery. The delegation assured the chairman of their continued assistance, collaboration, and prayers for the success of his administration. This partnership signals a promising alignment between the council and the medical community, with potential benefits for the health and well-being of Igbo-Etiti’s residents.
The enrollment of 1,000 indigent residents into the Enugu State Universal Health Insurance Scheme is a testament to Odo’s commitment to addressing systemic inequalities in healthcare access. The scheme, designed to provide affordable and comprehensive medical coverage, ensures that beneficiaries can access essential healthcare services without the burden of out-of-pocket expenses. For many indigent residents, this initiative represents a lifeline, enabling them to seek treatment for ailments that might otherwise go unaddressed due to financial constraints.
Odo’s focus on healthcare is particularly significant in a region where poverty and limited access to medical services have historically posed challenges for vulnerable populations. By prioritizing the enrollment of indigent residents, the council is not only addressing immediate healthcare needs but also laying the foundation for long-term improvements in public health outcomes. The initiative aligns with broader national and global goals, such as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which emphasize universal health coverage as a critical component of sustainable development.
Beyond healthcare, Odo’s administration is taking a holistic approach to governance, with plans to address other pressing needs in Igbo-Etiti. The chairman’s emphasis on infrastructure development reflects an understanding that access to quality healthcare, education, and economic opportunities depends on a strong foundation of physical and social infrastructure. By investing in roads, electricity, and other essential services, the council aims to create an enabling environment for growth and prosperity.
The economic revitalization efforts outlined by Odo are equally critical. By fostering local businesses and creating opportunities for entrepreneurship, the council seeks to reduce unemployment and stimulate economic activity within the LGA. These efforts are expected to have a multiplier effect, generating income for families, increasing local revenue, and contributing to the overall economic development of Enugu State.
Odo’s leadership style, characterized by empathy and inclusivity, has resonated with many residents of Igbo-Etiti. His open-door policy has fostered trust and transparency, encouraging community participation in governance. This approach is particularly important in a diverse LGA like Igbo-Etiti, where varying socio-economic backgrounds and interests must be balanced to achieve cohesive development.
The collaboration with UNTH’s Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery is a promising step toward strengthening the healthcare system in Igbo-Etiti. By leveraging the expertise and resources of medical professionals, the council can enhance its capacity to deliver specialized care, such as oral and maxillofacial surgery, to residents. This partnership also opens the door for future initiatives, such as medical outreach programs, health education campaigns, and capacity-building efforts for local healthcare workers.
As Dr. Odo continues to implement his vision for Igbo-Etiti, the enrollment of 1,000 indigent residents into the health insurance scheme stands out as a bold and impactful achievement. It reflects a commitment to prioritizing the needs of the most vulnerable while laying the groundwork for a more inclusive and prosperous future. With a focus on healthcare, infrastructure, and economic development, Odo’s administration is poised to deliver transformative change that will benefit generations to come.
In conclusion, the initiatives announced by Dr. Eric Odo demonstrate a forward-thinking approach to governance that prioritizes the well-being of all residents. The enrollment of 1,000 indigent residents into the Enugu State Universal Health Insurance Scheme is a significant milestone in the quest for equitable healthcare access. Coupled with efforts to improve infrastructure and stimulate the local economy, Odo’s leadership is setting a new standard for local governance in Igbo-Etiti. As the administration continues to collaborate with partners like UNTH, the prospects for sustainable development and improved quality of life in the LGA are brighter than ever.
