Kano State has emerged as the top-performing state in Nigeria’s drive towards Universal Health Coverage (UHC), exceeding its enrollment target by over 110,000 lives under the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund (BHCPF) Equity Program.
This remarkable achievement has positioned Kano as a model for other states to emulate.
According to the National Health Insurance Authority’s (NHIA) latest national performance review, Kano is among the states that have surpassed their targets, a testament to the state’s commitment to improving healthcare access for its citizens.
Kano surpassed its official enrollment target under the NHIA Gateway of the Basic Health Care Provision Fund, with the Kano State Contributory Healthcare Management Agency (KSCHMA) recording 327,410 validated enrollees, exceeding its target of 216,775.
According to official figures released by the NHIA, Kano State recorded 327,410 National Identification Number (NIN)-validated enrollees by the end of the first quarter, exceeding the NHIA target of 216,775 beneficiaries by more than 110,000 enrollees.
“Despite a national shortfall of 1,163,049 enrolments, with 29 states below target, only 7 states exceeded expectations, with Kano emerging as the standout performer, by exceeding its target by over 110,000 enrolments, followed by Edo (+38,000), Kaduna, Gombe, Delta, Akwa Ibom, and Ogun States.”
It is an outstanding performance that demonstrated effective mobilisation and enrolment strategies deployed by the KSCHMA.
The achievement could also be attributed to Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s committed leadership, sound policy, and disciplined execution, prioritising citizens’ health and wellbeing.
“This is what happens when the welfare of the people drives governance. Kano State will continue to lead by example,” Governor Yusuf once stated.
Also, the KSCHMA has played a crucial role in achieving this, driving grassroots mobilisation and decentralised enrolment across the state, under the leadership of its Executive Secretary, Dr Rahila Aliyu Muktar, whose team ensured that healthcare access was expanded to all corners of the state.
Kano’s performance is not an isolated incident, but rather the outcome of deliberate strategy and planning. The state’s success story is expected to inspire other states to emulate its example, as Nigeria works to close the national coverage gap.
The implications of Kano’s achievement are far-reaching, with improved healthcare access expected to boost economic productivity, reduce poverty, and enhance overall well-being. As Nigeria strives to achieve UHC, Kano’s model offers valuable lessons for other states.
Kano’s success has put the spotlight on the importance of effective governance and leadership in driving development. The state’s achievement demonstrates what can be accomplished when leaders prioritise their citizens’ welfare.
As the nation looks to address its healthcare challenges, Kano’s example serves as a beacon of hope.
