By Kingsley Agim
As Nigeria marks its 26th Democracy Day, the Director General of the Cross River State Health Insurance Agency (CRSHIA), Chief Godwin Iyala, has extended warm felicitations to the nation’s leaders while spotlighting the deepening impact of democratic governance on equitable healthcare delivery and social protection for Cross Riverians.
In a goodwill message released from the agency’s headquarters in Calabar, Chief Iyala praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and Vice President Kashim Shettima, GCON, for their “resolute and visionary leadership,” which he said has kept Nigeria’s democratic project firmly on course toward national rebirth and shared prosperity. He also commended Senate President Godswill Akpabio, CON, for his role in fostering legislative stability and advancing reforms critical to sustaining democratic ideals.
“This Democracy Day is not just a celebration of history — it is a celebration of progress,” Iyala stated. “It reminds us of the sacrifices made to secure our freedom, and the enduring potential of democracy to transform lives, particularly through inclusive policies that leave no one behind.”
Chief Iyala noted that at the federal level, ongoing economic, security, and governance reforms signal a democracy that is increasingly mature, responsive, and people-focused. He emphasized that the health sector, especially health insurance, plays a key role in delivering democratic dividends by guaranteeing access, protection, and dignity for all citizens, regardless of status or location.
He lauded the achievements of Governor Bassey Edet Otu in Cross River State, describing his “People-First” agenda as “a bold and compassionate roadmap for inclusive development,” with health insurance positioned as a central pillar for poverty reduction, social equity, and improved quality of life.
“Under Governor Otu’s leadership, we are expanding access to affordable, quality healthcare through robust insurance coverage — targeting the poor, the vulnerable, the elderly, women, and children,” he said. “This is what democracy looks like in practice: when government policies reflect the true needs of the people.”
Chief Iyala also praised Deputy Governor Rt. Hon. Peter Odey and Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, for their unwavering support and collaborative spirit, which he said have helped to strengthen governance structures and accelerate health reforms across the state.
According to him, the Cross River State Health Insurance Scheme has become a symbol of democratic commitment to social protection, economic security, and human dignity. “Health insurance is not just a policy tool; it is a lifeline. It represents the very spirit of democracy — access, inclusion, and fairness,” he said.
He further stressed that the agency remains committed to delivering on its mandate by enrolling more citizens, improving service delivery through strategic partnerships, and working with healthcare providers to ensure that no Cross Riverian is left behind due to inability to pay for care.
“As we commemorate June 12, may we remember that democracy is only meaningful when it protects the vulnerable, empowers the weak, and safeguards the future,” Iyala stated. “Whether it is a rural woman in Biase seeking antenatal care or an elderly man in Obudu managing a chronic illness, our policies must be shaped by their stories, and our systems designed to serve their needs.”
Concluding his Democracy Day message, Chief Iyala called for renewed national resolve to strengthen democratic institutions, uphold justice, and deliver tangible benefits to the people. “May our democracy grow deeper roots, may our people thrive in health and prosperity, and may Cross River State continue to stand as a model of people-driven, health-secure development,” he said.
