October 11, (THEWILL) –Â Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has announced plans to institute a health insurance scheme for theatre practitioners in the State.
Governor Sanwo-Olu announced the health insurance scheme during a dinner with veterans in the Yoruba Nollywood industry at the Lagos House Marina on Monday night.
The announcement by Governor Sanwo-Olu was commended by the Nollywood actors and actresses at the event who appreciated the Governor for deeming it fit to take care of the health of the theatre practitioners, especially the veterans in the industry.
It would be recalled that in recent times, theatre practitioners battling various health challenges and lacking funds have had to take to social media to beg Nigerians to foot their medical bills. Some are also living in poverty due to their inability to work in old age and health challenges.
Sanwo-Olu, who said he would pay the insurance premium cover for the theatre practitioners, most of whom are ageing, said the Nigerian movie industry and practitioners had played key roles in shaping the development of Lagos.
He said: “We realise that your industry is one of the highest employers of labour. You have continued to provide succour and means of livelihood to a lot of citizens quietly. More importantly, you give freshness to our lives through your stories. There is always a lesson and information to learn from the experiences you paint in your works. You fill in the creative space of our society and project good values about our culture, way of life and race.
“It is interesting to see your industry grow, even without enough support. You are able to stand and build names around the industry. As a Government, some of the interventions we have brought forward to assist your industry are not out of place; it is your right and entitlement which makes the Government look back in assistance to further shape our society for the greater good.”
