BY FAIZA JIBRIN, SEPTEMBER 23, 2025 | 11:58 AM
In a bold move to provide affordable and accessible healthcare for its civil servants, the Borno State Government has announced the launch of its new contributory health insurance plan, set to take effect in December 2025.
The initiative was unveiled at a five-day workshop held from September 22 to 26, 2025, at the International Conference Centre, Musa Usman Secretariat, Maiduguri.
Dr. Saleh Abba, Executive Secretary of the Borno State Contributory Healthcare Management Agency (BOSCHMA), emphasized the importance of the scheme, saying, 'It would significantly ease the process for workers and their families to access quality healthcare.'
Under the plan, civil servants will contribute 3.5% of their salary, while the government will cover 6.5%.
He added that the scheme will cover not just the civil servant but also their spouse and up to four children under 18.
A wide network of accredited health facilities will be available for workers to choose from, ensuring they receive the care they need at a convenient location.
Hajiya Mairo Bunu Lawan, Chairperson of BOSCHMA, called the initiative a milestone for the state, saying, 'This is a significant leap towards equitable, accessible, and affordable healthcare for our civil servants and their families. It's a promise of better health and peace of mind.'
She said civil servants can enroll by presenting their ID and, if applicable, their children's birth certificates, and access healthcare services after a 90-day waiting period.
Dr. Abba assured civil servants that they would not be restricted to a single health facility.
'Once we accredit healthcare centers, workers will have the freedom to choose the facility that best meets their needs. If, at any time, they feel their selected facility isn't providing adequate services, they have the right to switch,' he explained.
While the scheme has its limitations, including excluding high-cost treatments like organ transplants and certain plastic surgeries, it aims to provide a broad range of healthcare services tailored to the needs of workers in Borno.
In his remarks, the Head of Service, Muhammed Aminu Nghuluze, stressed the importance of understanding the new health insurance policy.
'This workshop organized by BOSCHMA is crucial for you to fully understand the benefits and details of this policy. I implore all civil servants to actively participate in these sensitization workshops, listen attentively, and take advantage of the information being shared,' he said.
The commissioner of health, Prof. Baba Mallam Gana, lauded the efforts, stating that 'Healthcare is not a burden; it is an investment. We urge all civil servants to embrace this initiative wholeheartedly.'
The launch of this health insurance plan is seen as a forward-thinking response to the growing healthcare needs of workers and a clear commitment to improving public health standards across the state.