AKHA Moves to Enforce Health Insurance Law Compliance in Akwa Ibom

The Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly (AKHA) is stepping up efforts to enforce the Health Insurance Agency Law, 2021, ensuring contractors and employers enroll workers into the State Health Insurance Scheme.

During plenary, Hon. Moses Essien (Ibiono Ibom) raised alarm over companies including major construction firms ignoring mandatory contributions. He reminded members that the law requires contractors handling government projects worth ₦50m+ (state) or ₦15m+ (local) to remit 1% of contract sums into the Health Fund. Employers who fail to enroll staff risk ₦5m fines or up to five years imprisonment.

Lawmakers agreed that non‑compliance undermines healthcare financing and denies citizens access to affordable care, frustrating Governor Umo Eno’s Universal Health Coverage drive under the ARISE Agenda.

The House directed the Health Insurance Agency to intensify enforcement, urged MDAs to deduct contributions before payments, and tasked the Health Committee with oversight. Members stressed that compliance will strengthen the insurance system, ease pressure on public hospitals, and safeguard workers’ health.

The Speaker, Rt. Hon. Udeme Otong, ordered a formal reminder to the State Government, while adjourning plenary to January 27,

2026.