Yobe State Government Expands Health Insurance to Retirees

In a move aimed at alleviating the financial burden of healthcare on retirees, the Yobe State Government has given its approval for the enrolment of state and local government pensioners into the Social Equity Programme of its health insurance scheme. This development was disclosed by the Executive Secretary of the Yobe Contributory Healthcare Management Agency, Dr Babagana Tijjani, in a statement issued on Tuesday in Damaturu. According to Dr Tijjani, the approval was granted by Governor Mai Mala Buni, following a recommendation from the agency. The primary objective of this initiative is to reduce the financial strain of out-of-pocket expenses on pensioners and enhance their access to comprehensive, high-quality healthcare services at accredited health facilities. Dr Tijjani emphasized that this approval underscores the state government’s commitment to improving the welfare of retirees and ensuring that senior citizens continue to enjoy quality healthcare after leaving active service. 'This approval is another demonstration of the governor’s commitment to protecting the health and well-being of residents of the state. By bringing retirees under the social equity programme, the government is ensuring that senior citizens can access quality healthcare without suffering financial hardship,' he stated. The inclusion of retirees in the scheme is also in line with the administration’s healthcare reform agenda and the state’s drive towards achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) by 2030. Dr Tijjani described the development as a significant step in expanding access to healthcare and strengthening social protection. He commended the governor for approving the initiative and reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to its effective implementation. The YSCHMA will work closely with pension unions, relevant government institutions, and healthcare providers to ensure a transparent enrolment process and seamless access to healthcare services for eligible beneficiaries. Established under Yobe State Law No. 7 of 2019, the YSCHMA is tasked with implementing the state’s contributory healthcare scheme and promoting equitable, affordable, and qualitative healthcare services for residents.