NiCare, Niger Foods Ltd Partner On Health Insurance Coverage

The Niger State Contributory Health Agency (NiCare) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Niger Food Security Systems and Logistics Company (Niger Foods Ltd) to extend health insurance coverage to farmers in the state. 

The Executive Secretary of NiCare, Sulayman Abu-bakr, revealed that this collaboration aims to enroll 350,000 farmers into the state’s health insurance scheme, ensuring their access to essential healthcare services. Before sealing the deal, NiCare engaged in an advocacy visit to Niger Foods Ltd to discuss the inclusion of farmers in the scheme.

Sammy Adigun, the chairman of Niger Food Security Systems and Logistics Company Limited, who signed the MoU on behalf of the state-owned private enterprise, stated that the program would empower 350 families. He explained that the health insurance scheme would cover a farmer, one wife, and his children.

Abu-bakr emphasized that this initiative would alleviate the financial burden on farmers when they require medical attention and also guarantee Universal Health Coverage (UHC) for them.

“No longer will our farmers have to endure the burden of illness without proper care; no longer will they have to sacrifice their health for the sake of their livelihoods. With this initiative, we pledge to support our farmer governor’s agenda of improving livelihoods in the state,” he stated.

He further highlighted that beyond healthcare provision, the initiative aimed to safeguard the lives of women, ensuring they receive the necessary care and support.

“These efforts are not just about providing healthcare; they are about safeguarding the lives of our mothers, sisters, and daughters, ensuring that they receive the care and support they need to thrive.”

Agronigeria/Oyenike Oyeniyi