By Danjuma Amodu | March 14, 2026
Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe has pioneered a groundbreaking health insurance scheme for journalists in Abuja, with the launch of the Federal Capital Territory Health Insurance Scheme (FHIS) for media professionals. Over 150 journalists have already been enrolled, marking a significant step towards improving healthcare access.
Fasawe, Mandate Secretary of the FCT Health Services and Environment Secretariat, provided 150 free health insurance slots for NUJ members. He stressed the importance of universal health coverage and pledged his continued commitment to support media professionals by announcing an additional 50 slots, saying, “Basic healthcare is not a luxury; it is a necessity.”
Speaking at the launch, NUJ FCT Council Chairperson, Comrade Grace Ike, described the initiative as a “historic milestone” and a major step towards safeguarding journalists’ welfare. She thanked the Mandate Secretary of FCT Health Services and Environment Secretariat, Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe for providing 150 free health insurance slots for NUJ members.
Similarly, the NUJ National President, Comrade Alhassan Yahya, commended the initiative, saying it would improve healthcare access for journalists and help address the gap in health insurance coverage.
The scheme is expected to benefit around 200 journalists in the FCT, with plans to extend coverage to more media professionals. Beneficiaries expressed gratitude to the NUJ FCT Council and the FCT Health Secretariat. The FCT Administration has pledged to continue protecting journalists’ rights and promoting an inclusive society.
The initiative is part of efforts to tackle maternal and child mortality, with FCT Minister Nyesom Wike adopting a zero-tolerance approach to maternal deaths.
The launch has prompted calls for philanthropists, politicians, and business leaders to sponsor health insurance for journalists. The NUJ plans to advocate for more support for journalists and push for universal health coverage.
The event was attended by over 450 NUJ members and stakeholders, including the Director of the FCT Health Insurance Scheme, Dr. Salamatu Belgore.
The initiative is seen as a significant step towards strengthening journalists’ welfare and advancing universal health coverage in the Federal Capital Territory.
The scheme’s launch has sparked hopes that more journalists will prioritise their health, given the financial support now available. Pregnant women in the FCT can access free antenatal care and delivery services at primary healthcare centres.
The NUJ’s efforts aim to bridge the gap in health insurance coverage, as studies indicate that less than one percent cent of Nigerian journalists currently have any form of health insurance.
The organisation plans to build on this momentum, advocating for more support for journalists and pushing for universal health coverage.
