By Kelvin Obambon
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) is prioritizing health insurance for journalists across the country as part of its ongoing efforts to improve the welfare and wellbeing of media professionals.
Speaking during an interactive session with members of the union in Calabar Cross River State, on Saturday, NUJ President Alhassan Yahaya reiterated his commitment to ensuring journalists have access to health insurance coverage, urging all members, especially veterans, to subscribe to state health insurance schemes.
Yahaya highlighted that with a modest annual premium of 15,000 naira, journalists could gain access to primary, secondary, and tertiary healthcare services without incurring heavy out-of-pocket expenses.
This health insurance initiative aligns with Nigeria’s policy requiring each state to establish state health insurance agencies aimed at improving universal health coverage and reducing out-of-pocket healthcare spending and maternal mortality.
The NUJ president emphasized that providing health insurance for journalists is essential given the demanding nature of their profession and the limited access many journalists have to quality healthcare.
Yahaya also mentioned efforts to establish a Media Enhancement Bill focused on improving remuneration and welfare packages for journalists, including health insurance as a critical part of this push. He encouraged members to support and promote these initiatives to safeguard their health and professional interests.
