In a significant move to uplift his community, Mr. Udochukwu Nnebedum, the President General of Isiagu, has empowered 16 petty traders with micro-credit grants and enrolled 100 indigent residents into the Anambra State Health Insurance Scheme (ASHIS). The total value of these initiatives amounts to N2.5 million.
The disbursement and enrollment took place during the 2024 Ogbuobodobo August meeting of the Isiagu women, held at the Afọr Isiagu market square. Mr. Nnebedum emphasized his commitment to promoting women’s empowerment, financial inclusion, and the vital role of good health in the community’s development.
The event began with an interdenominational service, where Pastor Chikodili Okoli highlighted the crucial role of women as the pillars of homes, society, and the community. He urged them to fulfill their responsibilities with the fear of God, stressing the importance of adhering to divine guidance in all their endeavors.
While disbursing the funds and facilitating the enrollment into ASHIS, Mr. Nnebedum stated that this initiative is his personal contribution to the town’s development and a response to the economic challenges faced by the community. He noted that the beneficiaries were selected from various wards within the community and announced plans to expand the micro-credit fund in future editions to support even more residents.
Mr. Nnebedum also expressed gratitude to the state government for launching the second phase of the “1 Youth, 2 Skills” initiative, from which Isiagu benefited. He called on the community to continue supporting the APGA-led administration, which he credited with delivering the dividends of democracy to Isiagu over the years.
In his remarks, Mr. Nnebedum assured the public that Isiagu is a secure and hospitable community, now recognized as one of the fastest-developing areas within the state capital and a prime investment destination.
Mrs. Bibian Onwura, President General of the women’s wing, expressed gratitude for the leadership of Mr. Nnebedum, praising his commitment to the welfare of others as a key factor in the community’s recent achievements.
On behalf of the micro-credit fund beneficiaries, Mrs. Chioma Nwosu commended Mr. Nnebedum for his focus on women, highlighting the community’s care for its own. She encouraged others in Isiagu to adopt similar positive and caring attitudes toward the less fortunate.
Elderly beneficiaries of the Anambra State Health Insurance Scheme, including Mr. Alexander Mgbemene and Mr. Cyprian Nnebedum, expressed their appreciation for Mr. Nnebedum’s prioritization of their health. They noted that this was the first time such an initiative had been taken in the community and prayed for continued blessings upon him and his family. They also urged other members of Isiagu to emulate this generosity by enrolling more indigent and elderly residents in the scheme.
Mrs. Nneoma Anoliefo, a staff member of the Anambra State Health Insurance Agency, educated attendees on the importance of the health insurance scheme, emphasizing its role in providing affordable and quality healthcare services. She encouraged more community stakeholders to support the initiative, reinforcing the idea that “health is wealth.”
