In its efforts to ensure universal healthcare access for the most vulnerable populations in Jigawa State, the state government has officially launched the J-Basic Healthcare Services for Vulnerable Citizens, a transformative initiative aimed at providing free and accessible healthcare to the poorest and most vulnerable citizens in the state.
The programme, which was flagged off on October 1st, 2024, at the Banquet Hall, Government House, Dutse, by Governor Mallam Umar Namadi, represents a historic commitment to healthcare equity in the state.
The program provides a safety net to the most at-risk populations by targeting 143,500 carefully selected beneficiaries from all 287 political wards across the state.
Speaking at the event, the Commissioner of Health, Dr. Abdullahi Muhammad Kainuwa, explained that this program represents a key step towards achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) in Jigawa State.
“The J-Basic Healthcare is built upon the foundation of the State Health Equity Programme, which is designed to deliver free and high-quality healthcare services to the poorest and most vulnerable populations in Jigawa State. This initiative reflects our state’s unwavering commitment to addressing healthcare disparities and reducing inequalities within our communities.”
With an investment of N1.5 billion, Dr. Kainuwa said the programme will deliver comprehensive healthcare services through primary and secondary health facilities, easing the financial burden of healthcare on vulnerable families.
“These individuals represent the poorest and most vulnerable segments of our population, many of whom have never had regular access to healthcare,” he said.
“The programme is not just about saving lives but also about empowering individuals and communities. When our citizens are healthy, they are more productive, children can attend school regularly, and families can thrive economically.”
“This programme will reduce the number of people who fall into poverty due to health-related expenses, which is a major concern for families across the state. By removing the financial barriers to healthcare, we are giving our people the opportunity to live healthier, more dignified lives.’
Beneficiaries were selected through a transparent and inclusive process, involving key stakeholders such as community leaders, civil society organizations, and healthcare workers. Each political ward will have 500 individuals enrolled in the program, receiving both treatment and preventive services aimed at improving overall health outcomes.
In his keynote address, Governor Mallam Umar Namadi reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to ensuring that no citizen is left behind in accessing healthcare.
“Our goal is to ensure that every Jigawa resident can receive the care they need without facing financial hardship. This program is a critical step toward that vision,” he said.
The Governor also recognized the invaluable contributions of development partners, including the FCDO-funded LAFIYA Program, UNICEF, and the World Health Organization (WHO), for their technical support in expanding the programme to six local government areas.
In addition to J-Basic Healthcare, the Governor highlighted other ongoing healthcare initiatives, such as the revitalization of primary health centers, the construction of new general hospitals, and the provision of free dialysis services for renal patients.
Hamisu Mohammed Gumel
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Jigawa State
October 2, 2024
