By Umar Faruk
Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State, Nigeria
October 15, 2025 (Series News Online)
The Kebbi State Contributory Healthcare Management Agency (KECHEMA) is making significant strides in bridging the healthcare gap in the state. According to Alhaji Abubakar Gado-Kamba, Chairman of the agency's Governing Board, the organization's progress is a testament to the government's commitment to improving the health and well-being of its citizens.
Speaking to journalists in Birnin Kebbi during a courtesy visit by the state leadership of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) to cement their relationship with the agency's governing board and management staff, Gado-Kamba credited the agency's success to the leadership and support of Governor Nasir Idris, who has provided KECHEMA with the necessary resources and autonomy to function effectively. "Our governing board, comprising representatives from various stakeholders, has ensured that our operations are transparent, accountable, and strategically guided," he said.
The agency's health insurance plans have witnessed remarkable growth, with the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund (BHCPF) membership increasing by 54.7% to 74,900. The Formal Sector Health Insurance Plan has also expanded, with a 19% rise in enrollment to 42,882. Furthermore, the Informal Sector Health Insurance Plan has seen a significant growth of over 106%, with membership rising to 26,993.
Gado-Kamba highlighted the agency's efforts to reach vulnerable populations, including those in zero-dose local government areas. Through a UNICEF-supported intervention, over 10,200 individuals have been enrolled in the health insurance scheme. Additionally, the Tertiary Institutions Social Health Insurance Programme (TISHIP) has been launched in six state-owned tertiary institutions, providing affordable healthcare for students.
The chairman noted that KECHEMA's commitment to professionalism and capacity building has earned recognition at both state and national levels. The agency has also provided medical assistance to patients with conditions not covered under the standard benefit package, as well as to indigent individuals yet to be enrolled.
Dr. Jafar Augie, Executive Secretary of KECHEMA, highlighted the technical aspects of the services offered by the agency, including the operational activities and area of coverage. He noted that KECHEMA has boosted the capacity of Primary Health Care Centers (PHCs) across the state, making healthcare services more accessible and affordable for Kebbi citizens.
Gado-Kamba assured that KECHEMA would continue to work with the state government, development partners, and communities to sustain progress and build a healthier state. "These achievements demonstrate our collective commitment to promoting the health and well-being of Kebbi citizens," he said.
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Healthcare services