By Rukayat Moisemhe

Anchor Health Maintenance Organisation (HMO) International Company Ltd., and Rotary Club of Nigeria, Victoria Island East, have partnered to provide health insurance cover for 100 indigent residents displaced from Maroko community for one year.

They made this known during a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signing ceremony on Tuesday in Lagos.

The General Manager, Anchor HMO, Mrs Idorenyin Okon, said the collaboration marked a significant step towards improving access to quality healthcare services across the country through shared commitment and strategic partnership.

Okon said the development would strengthen community health and well-being and support their resettlement in the new location.

She urged other civil society organisations to replicate the move as part of their Corporate Social Responsibility to spread the reach of better healthcare services particularly to grassroots areas.

Dr Sandra Nnamani, the Assistant General Manager, Anchor HMO, described the partnership as a testament to the company’s commitment to support underserved communities.

Nnamani said the partnership underscored a sustainable approach to community healthcare, offering long-term relief beyond one-time donations.

She asserted that beneficiaries would have consistent access to medical services that meet international standards.

“Anchor HMO is proud to partner with the Rotary Club to provide quality healthcare services to indigent individuals.

“While financial donations are valuable, they are often short-lived.

“Through this initiative, beneficiaries will have access to consistent, world-class healthcare services that meet international standards,” she said.

Mrs MokesiOluwa Seun-Adedamola, President, Rotary Club of Victoria Island East, said the initiative aligned with Rotary International’s focus on disease prevention and community development.

She said the partnership was designed to offer a sustainable alternative to one-time interventions such as food or clothing donations.

Seun-Adedamola said the displaced persons now residing in Eleko area of Lagos, would enjoy one year health insurance coverage.

She also stressed the importance of prioritising healthcare access for vulnerable populations.

“If you give someone a net, it may tear. But if you give them health insurance, you give them dignity, hope, and continued access to healthcare,” she said.

Mr Lanre Adedoyin, District Governor, Rotary District 9112, stated that the initiative was conceived as an intervention to ensure that displaced and indigent residents seek medical attention when needed, without financial barriers.

Adedoyin described the development as a “momentous step” for the club and a strategic contribution to the health sector in the community.

He urged all partners to uphold the values embedded in the MoU with integrity and accountability.

He also reaffirmed Rotary Club’s dedication to community-based projects in line with its seven areas of focus, including health and disease prevention, maternal and child health, and economic development.

“Health is wealth and a healthy nation is a wealthy nation.

“The MoU is not just a document; it is a commitment to walk the talk for a harmonious working relationship.

“It is a win-win for the club, for Anchor HMO, and most importantly, for the people of Maroko who now have renewed access to healthcare,” he stated.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the health insurance coverage implementation will give beneficiaries access to a network of hospitals and healthcare providers nationwide.

It covers a range of services including consultation, treatment, diagnostics, maternity and emergency care, optical and dental services and surgeries.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma