Chief (Dr.) Isaac Omavuaye Akpoveta, Director-General of the Delta State Contributory Health Insurance Commission, on Friday marked Boxing Day with a humanitarian outreach that saw the distribution of food items to vulnerable women across Ofuoma, Odovie and Emeragha communities in Ughelli North Local Government Area of Delta State.
The exercise, held on December 26, 2025, involved the distribution of bags of rice, groundnut oil and other essential household commodities to women, widows and young mothers, where more than 1,600 beneficiaries were reached.
Addressing newsmen after the event, Dr. Akpoveta described the initiative as a social responsibility aimed at supporting vulnerable members of society and reinforcing the spirit of compassion associated with the Christmas season.
“Boxing Day is traditionally a time for sharing and caring. This outreach is about ensuring that families, especially women who carry the burden of the home, can celebrate with dignity,” he said.
He explained that the programme aligns with the broader social protection and inclusiveness objectives of the Delta State Government, particularly the MORE Agenda, which prioritises the welfare of vulnerable populations.
Akpoveta noted that the number of beneficiaries exceeded initial projections due to high turnout from the communities, adding that efforts were made to ensure no one left empty-handed.
According to him, humanitarian interventions remain an important complement to public service, especially in sectors such as health, where access and affordability are critical challenges.
“As a health administrator, I see daily how poverty affects wellbeing. Supporting people with basic needs, even in small ways, contributes to healthier communities,” he said.
He further disclosed that the Delta State Contributory Health Insurance Commission’s equity plan is designed to cover vulnerable groups, including pregnant women, widows and children, stressing that sustained community engagement is key to achieving universal health coverage in the state.
While acknowledging the support of community members and leaders, Akpoveta called on public officials and stakeholders to adopt people-centred approaches in governance, noting that consistent grassroots interventions help to build trust and social stability.
Majority of the beneficiaries from the three communities who preferred anonymity expressed deep appreciation for the gesture, describing it as timely amid prevailing economic pressures.
