The Yobe government has approved the enrolment of state and local government retirees in its health insurance scheme. The executive secretary of the Yobe Contributory Healthcare Management Agency, Babagana Tijjani, said this in a statement released on Tuesday.

Mr Tijjani said the approval was granted by Governor Mai Mala Buni following the agency’s recommendation.

He also said that the initiative aimed to reduce the financial burden of out-of-pocket expenses among pensioners and enhance access to comprehensive, high-quality healthcare services at YSCHMA-accredited health facilities.

According to him, the approval underscores the state government’s commitment to improving retirees’ welfare 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,” Mr Tijjani explained. “By bringing retirees under the social equity programme, the government is ensuring that senior citizens can access quality healthcare without suffering financial hardship.”

The executive secretary further said the inclusion of retirees aligned with the administration’s healthcare reform agenda and the state’s drive towards achieving Universal Health Coverage by 2030.

Mr Tijjani described the development as a significant step in expanding access to healthcare and strengthening social protection. commended the governor for approving the initiative and reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to its effective implementation.

He said the YSCHMA would 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.

The YSCHMA was established under Yobe State Law No. 7 of 2019 to implement the state’s contributory healthcare scheme and to promote equitable, affordable, and high-quality healthcare services for residents.

(NAN)