Jigawa health insurance scheme now includes political appointees as Governor Namadi approves their enrollment to boost healthcare access and welfare
The Jigawa health insurance scheme has been expanded to cover political appointees, following the approval of Governor Umar Namadi.
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This move is aimed at promoting universal health coverage and improving access to essential medical services across the state.
The approval was announced during a brief ceremony on Friday by the Secretary to the State Government, Bala Ibrahim, who confirmed that amendments had been made to the JICHMA law to allow the inclusion of political office holders.
Speaking at the event, Bala Ibrahim said, “All political appointees are expected to enrol in the Jigawa health insurance scheme within the timeframe provided. It’s an opportunity to lead by example.”
He and the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Senator Mujitaba Muhammad, were the first to complete their official registration into the scheme.
Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Dr Kabiru Ibrahim, revealed that JICHMA had already enrolled 500 vulnerable individuals from each of the state’s 287 political wards.
“Beneficiaries are digitally selected and documented in a central database at JICHMA’s head office,” he said.
Executive Secretary of JICHMA, Hamza Maigari, said arrangements had been finalised to facilitate the enrolment of all appointees across all 27 local government areas.
“The government has shown its dedication to the welfare of its workforce. This initiative ensures access to essential healthcare for appointees and strengthens the health system,” Maigari said.
He added that the enrolment will not only benefit the political class but also reinforce the state’s wider healthcare agenda.
Maigari appealed to all appointees to take part in the registration process, emphasising that it reflects the administration’s commitment to equitable healthcare delivery.
The initiative was supported by the Technical Adviser to the Governor on Health Matters, Isah Sirajo.
He is credited with coordinating the technical framework for successful implementation.
The Jigawa health insurance scheme, known as JICHMA, continues to expand its coverage.
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The inclusion of political office holders marks a key milestone in the government’s drive to ensure health access for all citizens, regardless of social status.
