Juliet Jacob 
LAFIA, Nigeria – Nasarawa State strengthens its push towards universal health coverage as enrollment in its health insurance scheme surpasses 308,000 residents, officials confirm.
The milestone is announced at a town hall meeting marking the 2025 Universal Health Coverage Day, where stakeholders review progress and service delivery challenges.
NASHIA Executive Secretary Yahaya Ubam says the scheme, launched in 2019 without a single enrollee, now covers civil servants, informal workers, students and vulnerable groups. “We have grown steadily, and beneficiaries now access care through about 260 accredited facilities across the state,” Ubam says.
He acknowledges operational challenges but points to reforms, including full digitalisation, aimed at improving efficiency and access. Ubam urges healthcare providers to uphold professional standards, stressing that public trust underpins sustainability.
He credits Governor Abdullahi Sule’s support as crucial and commends community sponsors who fund insurance for indigent residents.
Health Commissioner Gaza Gwamna, represented by Permanent Secretary Damina John, reaffirms government commitment. “Affordable and quality healthcare remains a core priority of this administration,” he says.
Stakeholders at the meeting raise concerns and provide feedback, underscoring the state’s emphasis on inclusive engagement as it works towards universal health coverage.
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Oluwatobi Adu 
Hussaini Ibrahim 