The Borno State government is making strides towards the implementation of a contributory healthcare scheme by preparing to deduct 3.5% from workers’ salaries. This initiative, championed by the Borno State Contributory Healthcare Agency (BOSCHMA), was signed into law by Governor Babagana Zulum in August 2019.
At a recent town hall meeting in Maiduguri, the Borno Head of Service, Mallam Fannami, emphasized the need for stakeholders to rally behind the agency. He expressed commitment to collaborate with the agency and obtain necessary approvals from Governor Zulum and organized labor to commence the 3.5% premium deductions from the basic salaries of state civil servants. Additionally, efforts will be made to discuss similar deductions for political office holders.
Acknowledging the agency’s achievements over the past four years, the head of service underscored efforts being made to ensure equitable and accessible healthcare delivery throughout Borno State.
Furthermore, the Borno Commissioner for Health, Prof. Baba Malam-Gana, highlighted the commitment to allocate over 15% of the state’s 2024 budget to healthcare, in alignment with the Abuja declaration on healthcare funding. He urged citizens to enroll in the insurance scheme and called for support from philanthropists, emphasizing the inclusion of vulnerable individuals.
During the gathering, Dr. Shehu Sule, a Guest Speaker and Medical Doctor, stressed the importance of widespread support for the success of the healthcare scheme. He appealed for increased government funding and the backing of well-meaning Nigerians.
Adding to the discourse, Bulama Abiso, Chairman of the Borno Network of Civil Society Organizations, urged politicians, corporate entities, and health partners to allocate a portion of their resources to bolster the scheme.
Dr. Saleh Abba, the Executive Secretary of BOSCHMA, revealed that over 115,628 vulnerable individuals have been enlisted in the scheme over the last four years. He also highlighted the accreditation of approximately 183 Primary Healthcare facilities across the state, in collaboration with the National Health Insurance Agency, to cater to beneficiaries, with general hospitals serving as referral centers. Dr. Abba commended the state government for its unwavering support and detailed the agency’s digitalization efforts for improved service delivery.
The initiative marks a significant step towards enhancing healthcare accessibility and affordability for the people of Borno State. With the support of stakeholders and the commitment of government resources, the implementation of the contributory healthcare scheme holds great promise for delivering quality and inclusive healthcare services to the citizens.
