By Awwal Umar Kontagora Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, has announced the inclusion of farmers, political appointees, and nomad...
By Awwal Umar Kontagora
Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, has announced the inclusion of farmers, political appointees, and nomads in the State’s Health Insurance Scheme. The move aims to ensure universal access to healthcare services for all residents.
Governor Bago made the announcement during a close-out ceremony for the GAVI-supported Primary Healthcare (PHC) System Strengthening Project in Niger State. The event, held at the Niger State Governor’s Lodge, was attended by development partners from the Global Alliance for Vaccine Immunization (GAVI), UNICEF, and the World Health Organization (WHO).
The Governor emphasized that farmers, political appointees, and nomads would be registered through the Ministry of Nomadic and Pastoral Affairs. He also revealed that over 250,000 civil servants and political appointees have already been enrolled in the scheme.
In addition, Governor Bago reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to child birth registration, aligning with the goals of UNICEF’s programs. He further disclosed plans to launch a drone vaccine delivery project within six months. The initiative aims to provide digital medicine to riverine and remote areas across the State, ensuring equitable access to healthcare services.
Speaking at the event, Ibrahim Sesay, Chief of Child Protection at UNICEF, highlighted the importance of birth registration, describing it as a fundamental right for every child. He noted that Niger State achieved 100% birth registration in 2024, with over 400,000 children under the age of five registered. Sesay added that, starting in 2025, newborns will be registered and issued birth certificates integrated with National Identity Numbers (NIN).
Dr. Shyam Pathak, Chief of Health at UNICEF Nigeria, commended the State’s efforts, stating that the three-year program has significantly reduced mortality and morbidity rates while improving access to quality healthcare for vulnerable populations.
The event concluded with the presentation of a UNICEF award to Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the health sector.
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