By Patrick Titus, Uyo
The Executive Secretary of Akwa Ibom State Health Insurance Agency (AKSHIA), Dr. Igbemi Arthur Igbemi is among notable leaders honoured in Nairobi with the African Prestige Honoris Award for their contributions
to health systems strengthening and the promotion of insurance-based healthcare delivery models across Africa.
The award, presented during a recently held high-level summit of continental policy leaders, recognised Igbemi’s leadership in expanding health insurance coverage and promoting sustainable healthcare financing in Akwa Ibom State.
It was conferred in recognition of his role in driving reforms through the state health insurance scheme, which has widened access to affordable healthcare services.
Under his leadership, the AKSHIA has rolled out the ARISE Care Programme, a flagship initiative aimed at improving access to quality healthcare for vulnerable groups and formal sector workers.
The scheme has continued to record steady progress in enrolment and service delivery in line with efforts to achieve Universal Health Coverage (UHC), with thousands of residents reportedly benefitting since its launch in 2024.
The recognition by the African Prestige Honoris Award positions, Igbemi, a medical doctor as part of a new generation of African public sector reformers and leaders committed to strengthening institutions, challenging conventional approaches, and delivering measurable impact in public service delivery.
Responding on the award, Dr. Igbemi noted his recognition for the award to vision of Governor Umo Eno, describing him as a leader who only believes in the well-being of the citizens but committed to ensuring that necessary resources are made available. A development that ensures no Akwa Ibom person is pushed into poverty by medical bills.
“This recognition is not just for me, but for a leader who dares to believe in the sanctity of human life and the necessity of affordable healthcare,” adding that he appreciates Governor Umo Eno’s unwavering support and belief in his capacity to deliver on the mandate.
“The Governor’s vision for the state is what fuels our passion at AKSHIA. He has created an enabling environment where innovation can thrive, and for that, we are seeing the fruits today in the city of Nairobi,” Dr. Igbemi added.
He further emphasized the importance of cross-border collaboration, knowledge sharing, and institutional innovation, calling on African governments to strengthen partnerships that move beyond resource dependence toward knowledge-driven, people-centred economies.
The recently concluded award ceremony in Nairobi set the tone for broader reflections on what African public service can achieve when vision, leadership and innovation are effectively aligned, underscoring that meaningful reform often begins with a deliberate decision to do things differently, sustained by the discipline and consistency required to translate vision into results.
The event was attended by a wide range of stakeholders from across Nairobi and the broader African health and development community.
