The Niger State Government has launched a new initiative to register 66,000 vulnerable residents under the Basic Health Care Provision Fund. This project seeks to alleviate medical expenses for impoverished families and broaden the reach of free health services across all 25 local government areas. The announcement occurred in Minna during the launch of 2026 World Breastfeeding Week and the naming of the First Lady, Hajiya Fatima Mohammed Bago, as the official NiCare Health Insurance Ambassador.
Dr. Murtala Mohammed Bagana, the Commissioner for Secondary and Tertiary Healthcare, reported that over 121,000 residents are currently participating in the fund. He emphasized that this expansion aims to remove monetary obstacles to medical care and push the state closer to universal health coverage. The commissioner urged relevant agencies to prioritize the identification and enrollment of every eligible individual.
In her new role, First Lady Fatima Mohammed Bago committed to promoting health insurance for marginalized groups, including women, children, and individuals with disabilities. She asserted that healthcare access must not depend on wealth, stating that medical costs should not force families into poverty. Additionally, she encouraged exclusive breastfeeding for infants under six months and called on community leaders and employers to support nursing mothers.
