Nigerstate Contributory Health Agency - NiCare

27/07/2025

Niger State Head of Service Strengthens Civil Servants’ Participation in NiCare Formal Sector Health Insurance Scheme

In a move that reinforces leadership and deepens commitment to the health and well-being of civil servants in Niger State, the Head of Service, Alhaji Idris Abubakar Sadiq, has officially enrolled into the Niger State Contributory Health Scheme under the Formal Sector Programme.

This enrollment followed a courtesy visit by the Executive Secretary of NiCare, Sulayman Abu-bakr, and his management team to the Office of the Head of Service. The engagement was aimed at fostering deeper collaboration and boosting participation among civil servants in the ongoing health insurance programme.

Speaking during the visit, Director of Operations, NiCare, Pharm. Attahiru Shehu Malagi, described the Head of Service’s enrollment as both strategic and inspiring. He noted that it would encourage broader buy-in from other civil servants and praised the Head of Service for his openness and willingness to lead by example.
“We are deeply grateful to the Head of Service for his time, his support, and for bringing key stakeholders to the table,” Malagi said. “Their presence demonstrates shared ownership of the scheme.”
He also called on the Head of Service to help appreciate the visionary leadership of the Executive Secretary of NiCare, whose consistent efforts align with the universal health coverage and improving livelihood agenda of His Excellency, Farmer Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago.

In his remarks, the Executive Secretary, Sulayman Abu-bakr, provided insights into the enrollment process and outlined the scheme’s benefits — including improved access to quality healthcare, protection against high medical costs, and availability of a wide network of accredited health facilities.
He assured stakeholders of NiCare’s ongoing commitment to transparency, accountability, and stakeholder engagement. The Executive Secretary, further explained that, with employees’ consent, automatic salary deductions enable prompt access to medical care without the burden of out-of-pocket expenses. He also highlighted upcoming initiatives such as digital enrollment, real-time monitoring of service providers, and a functional grievance redress system to ensure user satisfaction.

Responding during the symbolic enrollment exercise, the Head of Service expressed his full confidence in the scheme and pledged unwavering support. He announced immediate plans to mandate the enrollment of all Directors in the state civil service as a first phase, followed by a state-wide sensitization campaign to increase participation across the board.
“I will invite NiCare to the breakfast meeting of the office of Head of Service to engage larger group” the Head of Service said. “Healthcare is too important to leave to chance, and this administration is committed to leading from the front.”

Other key government functionaries present at the enrollment ceremony were Permanent Secretaries from the SSG's office. These include Idris A. Legbo, ESV. James T. Bake, and Mrs. Hauwa Dikson Vyda,

This development marks a significant milestone in the drive toward comprehensive health coverage for Niger State civil servants and underscores the administration’s dedication to the welfare of its workforce.

25/07/2025

16/07/2025

NiCare Sensitizes Niger State Internal Revenue Service Staff on Formal Sector programme of Contributory Health Scheme

As part of efforts to onboard formal sector workers across Niger State into the NiCare scheme, the NiCare team conducted a sensitization visit to the Niger State Internal Revenue Service (NGSIRS), Minna.

The sensitization meeting, which brought together key staff of the State Internal Revenue Service , aimed to educate civil servants on the benefits and processes of enrolling in the state-backed health insurance scheme designed to ensure access to affordable and quality healthcare for all.

In his welcome remarks delivered on behalf of the Executive Chairman, Mohammed Madami Etsu, the Head of Tax Operations at NGSIRS, Aminu Bawa, commended the NiCare team for the initiative. He emphasized the importance of collaboration in promoting access to healthcare for civil servants and assured the agency’s readiness to support the scheme.

The Director of Operations NiCare, Pharm. Attahiru Shehu Malagi, provided a comprehensive overview of the Niger State Contributory Health Scheme. He explained the rationale behind its establishment, highlighting its objectives of reducing out-of-pocket healthcare expenses and improving health outcomes across the state. He added that the visit aimed to expand awareness and boost participation in the scheme.

Speaking further, the Head of the Formal Sector NiCare, Isah Adamu, sensitized the staff on the various benefits available to enrollees under the scheme. He explained the scope of coverage, including access to primary and secondary healthcare services, maternity care, and treatment for common illnesses.

NiCare’s System Administrator, Maryam Shuaibu, delivered a step-by-step presentation on the formal sector enrolment process. She guided participants through both the digital and administrative procedures required for successful registration.

The session concluded with an interactive question-and-answer segment, during which the staff sought clarifications on issues such as premiums, coverage for dependents, approved hospitals, and transitioning from private to public healthcare schemes. The NiCare team responded to inquiries with assurance, emphasizing the scheme’s transparency and commitment to efficient service delivery.

22/06/2025

Member, Niger State House of Assembly Partners with NiCare to Enroll 600 Vulnerable Persons into Health Insurance Scheme in Tafa LGA

In a move to enhance access to quality healthcare, the Member representing Tafa Constituency in the Niger State House of Assembly, Honorable Mohammed Sani Idris, has partnered with the Niger State Contributory Health Agency-NiCare, to enroll 600 vulnerable persons across all wards in Tafa Local Government Area into the state’s health insurance scheme.
The official flag-off ceremony for the distribution of NiCare enrollment ID cards to beneficiaries and sensitization on access to quality healthcare services, which formed part of the launch of Hon. Idris’ constituency projects, is in alignment with the Livelihood Improvement Agenda of the Farmer Governor, His Excellency Mohammed Umar Bago, aimed at improving the standard of living of rural dwellers through inclusive and people-centered policies.

In his welcome address, Hon. Mohammed Sani Idris reaffirmed his commitment to projects that have direct impact on the lives of his constituents, particularly in the areas of healthcare, education, and economic empowerment. He described the partnership with NiCare as a strategic effort to uplift the most vulnerable and ensure that no one is left behind in accessing basic health services.

Speaking before the symbolic presentation of enrollment ID cards, Pharm. Attahiru Shehu Malagi, Director of Operations, NiCare, sensitized beneficiaries on how to use their ID cards to access healthcare at any accredited facility during emergency. He emphasized the importance of utilizing the scheme to reduce out-of-pocket medical expenses and improve health outcomes.

Delivering a goodwill message, during the presentation of the ID cards, the Executive Secretary, Sulayman Abu-Bakr, lauded Hon. Idris’ proactive approach to healthcare delivery and declared:
“This initiative represents a significant stride toward universal health coverage in Niger State. By prioritizing the needs of the vulnerable, Hon. Idris has demonstrated visionary leadership. NiCare remains committed to supporting such impactful collaborations and urges other public officials to emulate this thoughtful gesture.”
He also pledged continued support from the agency to ensure the successful implementation and sustainability of the initiative.

The event was attended by the chairman of Niger State Universal Basic Education Board (NSUBEB), Mohammed Baba Ibrahim, top community stakeholders, traditional leaders, healthcare officials, and enthusiastic residents who praised the gesture as timely, commendable, and people-focused.

18/06/2025

TISHIP Review Meeting: NiCare, Tertiary Institutions Align Efforts to Strengthen Student Health Coverage in Niger State

In a bid to enhance student access to quality healthcare, the Niger State Contributory Health Agency-NiCare convened a strategic review meeting with representatives from state-owned tertiary institutions to evaluate the implementation of the Tertiary Institution Social Health Insurance Programme (TISHIP).
Held at the Ministry of ICT Conference Hall, Minna, the meeting brought together stakeholders to assess progress with the signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), identify and tackle challenges impeding the programme’s effectiveness.

In his welcome address, the Executive Secretary/CEO NiCare, Sulayman Abu-Bakr, emphasized the agency's commitment to building a responsive and transparent system.
“This meeting is essential to address the gaps in student health coverage across Niger State. Our shared goal is to develop an efficient, transparent, and accountable system that benefits all students,” he said.
He further highlighted the importance of inter-agency collaboration in driving universal health coverage and reaffirmed NiCare’s commitment to managing remitted premiums with integrity. He urged institutions to expedite student enrollment and premium remittance processes.

Representing the Commissioner for Tertiary Education, the Permanent Secretary, Alhaji Sirajo Sa'id, lauded NiCare for its initiative in convening the meeting and commended the impressive participation of institutional representatives. He encouraged open dialogue to identify grey areas and practical strategies for improved implementation.

The NiCare-TISHIP Programme Lead, Ra’inatu Yawa, outlined the meeting’s core objectives: assessing the programme’s current status and proposing sustainable solutions to operational bottlenecks. She urged institutions to designate desk officers to facilitate seamless communication with NiCare.

A key highlight of the meeting was a presentation by NiCare’s Director of Operations, Pharm. Attahiru Shehu Malagi, who provided insights into the financial framework and operational status of TISHIP. His report revealed varying levels of compliance among institutions, with IBB University Lapai and the Niger State College of Education showing notable progress. However, several others lag in remittance and student data submission.
Identified challenges include:
• Delayed or inconsistent remittance of premiums
• Underpayment of required contributions
• Late or non-submission of accurate student data
Participants discussed strategic interventions to address these issues, reiterating the importance of adherence to the MoU and ensuring that all remittance processes directly support student healthcare access.

The meeting concluded with a unified commitment to improve institutional compliance, enhance coordination, and ensure the sustainability of TISHIP across the state.
In his closing remarks, Alhaji Sirajo Sa'id expressed optimism that the resolutions reached would lead to a more efficient and student-focused health insurance system.

Notable attendees included members of the Niger State House of Assembly, Chairman, House Committee on Education, Hon. Sani Idris, and Chairman, House Committee on Finance, Hon. Aliyu Sheshi Wushishi.

12/06/2025

31/05/2025

NiCare, CHAI Convene Informal Sector Strategy Validation Workshop to Expand Health Insurance Coverage

The Niger State Contributory Health Agency -NiCare, in collaboration with the Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI), has concluded a three-day Informal Sector Strategy Validation Workshop in Minna, aimed at expanding health insurance coverage for informal workers and vulnerable populations.
The workshop, held from May 29 to 31, 2025, at Haske Luxury Hotel, Minna, was a key activity under the project titled “Expanding Health Insurance to Improve Sexual and Reproductive Health Outcomes”, funded by Global Affairs Canada.

Declaring the event open, the Executive Secretary, NiCare, Sulayman Abu-bakr, represented by the Director of Operations, Pharm. Attahiru Shehu Malagi, welcomed participants and emphasized the significance of their contributions. He noted that every participant had been carefully selected for their expertise and experience, and encouraged them to engage actively throughout the sessions.
“You were not chosen by chance,” he remarked. “Your insight and experience are critical. I encourage you to share your wisdom and help validate a plan that will expand coverage for more lives in our communities.”

One of the highlights of the workshop was a presentation by CHAI representative, who shared key findings from recent community-level assessments across Niger State. The presentation provided valuable insights into the level of awareness and understanding of health insurance among residents, especially in rural and underserved areas. These findings are expected to guide the refinement of the demand generation strategy targeting the informal sector.

In outlining the objectives of the workshop, Head Informal Sector, NiCare, Habibah Umar explained that the event was designed to summarize existing health insurance programs and initiatives in the state, share insights from the Informal Sector Study to understand the drivers of health insurance uptake, and present results from modeling analyses focused on expanding coverage for vulnerable groups. The workshop also sought to validate the draft informal sector strategy and jointly develop an advocacy plan to support innovative financing mechanisms for expanded health coverage.

She further noted that the expected outcomes of the workshop include the validation of a robust demand generation and marketing strategy tailored to the informal sector, the development of a clear and actionable implementation roadmap with specific timelines and responsibilities, and the formulation of a comprehensive advocacy plan to promote sustainable and inclusive health insurance expansion.

Throughout the three-day meeting, participants engaged in strategic discussions, breakout sessions, and validation exercises. These collaborative efforts are expected to culminate in a refined, inclusive action plan that will drive increased health insurance enrollment and ensure greater health access for all.

The workshop reflects NiCare’s strong commitment to achieving universal health coverage and promoting equitable healthcare access, particularly for underserved and vulnerable populations.

30/05/2025

Lapai Emirate Development Foundation Pays Courtesy Visit to NiCare Executive Secretary

The Executive Secretary of the Niger State Contributory Health Agency-NiCare, Sulayman Abu-Bakr, recently received members of the Lapai Emirate Development Foundation on a courtesy visit at the NiCare office in Minna.

The delegation, made up of distinguished professionals from various fields, commended the leadership of NiCare for its sustained efforts in enhancing access to quality healthcare across the state—particularly within the Lapai axis.

In his welcome address, Sulayman Abu-bakr expressed appreciation for the visit and reaffirmed NiCare’s commitment to delivering affordable and quality healthcare services to the people of Niger State. He offered a detailed overview of the agency’s mandate, operations, and its growing impact in the region.

While highlighting NiCare’s interventions in Lapai, he disclosed that there are currently 10 NiCare-accredited healthcare facilities serving beneficiaries in the area. He further revealed that over 3,000 individuals have so far been enrolled into the scheme from Lapai, granting them access to health services without financial strain.

“While we have recorded notable progress in Lapai, we are actively exploring ways to expand coverage and increase the number of lives enrolled under the scheme. Our goal is to ensure no one is left behind, and that every resident regardless of their background has access to quality healthcare through NiCare,” he stated.

Speaking on behalf of the Foundation chairman, the chairman central working committee Mohammed Evuti Aliyu, praised the agency for its impact-driven programs and pledged the association’s continued support in driving health insurance awareness and enrollment within the Lapai Emirate and beyond.

He also commended the Executive Secretary for staying connected to his constituency, expressing pride in the remarkable work he is doing at the helm of NiCare. According to him, Abu-Bakr’s leadership stands as a beacon of inspiration to professionals from the emirate and across the state.

The visit concluded with an interactive session during which both parties discussed opportunities for collaboration in the areas of advocacy, community engagement, and capacity building.

NiCare continues to strengthen its partnerships with traditional and professional institutions to foster inclusive and sustainable healthcare delivery throughout Niger State.

27/05/2025

Today, we join the world in celebrating the joy, innocence, and boundless potential of every child. At NiCare, we believe that every child matters and deserves access to quality healthcare, love, and opportunities to thrive.
As we mark this special day, let us reaffirm our commitment to nurturing a healthier, safer, and brighter future for all our children.
Happy Children’s Day!
Executive Secretary, NiCare

26/05/2025

NiCare Introduces Equity Health Fund, Rolls Out Revised Operational Guidelines to Strengthen Universal Healthcare in Niger State

The Niger State Contributory Health Agency -NiCare has officially launched its revised Operational Guidelines and introduced the Niger State Equity Health Fund, marking a major milestone in the state’s efforts to deliver inclusive, affordable, and sustainable healthcare to all residents.

Speaking at a press briefing in his office, the Executive Secretary/CEO NiCare, Sulayman Abu-Bakr, described the dual launch as a “historic and symbolic advancement” in the journey to reposition healthcare under the visionary NEW NIGER agenda of His Excellency, Governor Farmer (Dr.) Mohammed Umaru Bago.

The official launch, held at the Government House, also witnessed the enrollment of key state leaders—including the Governor, Deputy Governor, and Secretary to the State Government—into the health insurance scheme.

According to Abu-Bakr, this move demonstrates “leadership by example” and reinforces the collective responsibility of ensuring healthcare access for all.

“This is not just about insurance; it’s about equity, transparency, and building a system that works for every resident regardless of their income level,” Abu-Bakr stated.

At the core of the reforms is the introduction of the Niger State Equity Health Fund, a targeted financial mechanism to subsidize care for vulnerable populations. The revised guidelines further emphasize risk-pooling and cross-subsidization as key strategies to achieve universal health coverage.

As part of its modernization efforts, NiCare is also digitizing its claims processing system to enhance efficiency, reduce leakages, and improve service delivery across the board.

Additionally the updated guidelines incorporate a performance-based system for healthcare providers. Facilities delivering quality, transparent, and timely services will be incentivized, while those falling short will face regulatory sanctions — a move designed to strengthen accountability and trust within the health system.
“NiCare is building more than a scheme — we’re building a resilient model of people-centered and policy-driven healthcare delivery,” Abu-Bakr added.

He concluded by encouraging all residents — including civil servants, informal sector workers, students, and retirees — to enroll in the scheme, assuring that NiCare’s reformed structure is designed to serve everyone fairly and effectively.

He also commended the media for its continued partnership and called for broader public awareness about the agency’s enrollment drive and reform agenda.

21/05/2025

FARMER GOVERNOR UMARU BAGO ENROLLS INTO NiCare HEALTH INSURANCE SCHEME
Governor leads by example, urges citizens to embrace health insurance for better health outcomes

Niger State Governor, Farmer Dr. Mohammed Umaru Bago, has officially enrolled into the Niger State Contributory Health Scheme (NiCare), reinforcing his administration’s commitment to accessible, quality healthcare for all.
The symbolic enrollment was conducted by the Executive Secretary of NiCare, Sulayman Abu-Bakr, at the Council Chamber of Government House, Minna.

Speaking during the exercise, Governor Bago emphasized the numerous benefits of the health insurance scheme and encouraged all residents—especially those in the formal sector—to take full advantage of the program, which is designed to reduce out-of-pocket medical expenses and improve health outcomes across the state.
“I call on all Nigerlites to enroll in NiCare. Public trust is public wealth, and this scheme is a direct investment in our collective well-being, and future ” the Governor stated.

Also enrolled during the event were the Deputy Governor, Comrade Yakubu Garba, and the Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Abubakar Usman, further showcasing the administration’s hands-on leadership and dedication to healthcare reform.
Governor Bago commended Sulayman Abu-Bakr for his transformative leadership at NiCare, particularly for significantly increasing enrolment figures and introducing innovations that are improving healthcare access and efficiency across the state.