The Yobe State Government has approved the enrolment of retired state and local government workers into the Social Equity Programme under the state’s health insurance scheme, enabling pensioners to access quality healthcare without the burden of high medical costs.
The approval was granted by Governor Mai Mala Buni following a recommendation by the Yobe State Contributory Healthcare Management Agency (YSCHMA). The agency’s Executive Secretary, Dr. Babagana Tijjani, disclosed the development in a statement issued on Tuesday in Damaturu.
Tijjani said the decision would significantly reduce retirees’ out-of-pocket healthcare expenses while improving their access to comprehensive medical services at YSCHMA-accredited health facilities.
Commenting on the approval, Tijjani said the initiative underscores the state government’s commitment to enhancing the welfare of retirees and ensuring that senior citizens continue to receive quality healthcare after leaving active service.
He added that the Governor’s decision reflects the administration’s broader commitment to safeguarding the health and well-being of residents across 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,” Tijjani said.
According to him, the inclusion of retirees in the scheme aligns with the state’s healthcare reform agenda and its target of achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) by 2030.
He described the approval as a significant milestone in expanding healthcare access and strengthening social protection for retired workers across the state.
Tijjani also commended Governor Buni for approving the initiative and reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to its effective implementation.
He said YSCHMA would work closely with pension unions, relevant government agencies, and healthcare providers to ensure a transparent enrolment process and seamless access to healthcare services for all eligible retirees.
The Yobe State Contributory Healthcare Management Agency was established under Yobe State Law No. 7 of 2019 to implement the state’s contributory healthcare scheme and promote equitable, affordable, and quality healthcare services for residents.
