Kaduna LGA Proposes Mandatory Health Insurance for Couples and Political Aspirants

The Chairman of Kudan Local Government Area in Kaduna State, Dauda Abba, has proposed that couples intending to marry should first enroll in the state’s health insurance scheme under the Kaduna State Contributory Health Management Authority (KADCHMA).

Speaking during the launch of a grassroots enrollment campaign, Abba emphasized that this move would not only boost participation in the scheme but also ensure that more families have access to affordable and quality healthcare.

He explained that the requirement aims to promote better health outcomes, particularly for pregnant women, who would benefit from coverage that includes antenatal care, delivery, and postnatal services. According to him, the scheme offers protection against unexpected medical expenses, easing the financial burden on families.

The chairman noted that an annual payment of ₦10,650 grants access to a broad range of healthcare services, making it a comprehensive solution for residents, especially women and children. He added that making the health insurance card a precondition for marriage would help increase awareness and enrollment across the state.

To formalize the proposal, Abba announced plans to send an Executive Order to the local legislature for a by-law requiring prospective couples to present their KADCHMA cards before getting married. The proposed law would also require political aspirants in the LGA to be enrolled in the scheme, demonstrating commitment to community health initiatives.

“We hope to pass the by-law within two to three weeks and share it with key stakeholders,” he said.

Abba pledged to sponsor the enrollment of 1,000 individuals into the scheme, with plans to enroll an additional 1,000 once the first phase is complete. He called on traditional and religious leaders, as well as other community stakeholders, to help spread awareness and support implementation at the grassroots.

Also speaking at the event, the Director-General of KADCHMA, Abubakar Hassan, reiterated that the goal of the scheme is to ensure universal access to affordable and quality health services across the state. He stressed that no resident should be denied healthcare due to financial constraints.

Hassan pointed out that the campaign was launched to educate communities on the benefits of enrolling in the scheme, especially targeting local leaders to drive adoption and ensure sustainability.

He described the health initiative as a step toward achieving Universal Health Coverage in Kaduna State. He also highlighted alarming maternal mortality rates, noting that the scheme has already supported over 50 cesarean deliveries at no extra cost to the women involved.

“Health is no longer a privilege in Kaduna State, it’s a right,” he said, encouraging community leaders to serve as enrollment ambassadors by incorporating health promotion into their development plans and community outreach.

The District Head of Kudan, Halliru Mahmood, also commended the initiative, describing it as a practical way to offer financial protection and improve access to healthcare for families, particularly those in rural areas.

He stated that the enrollment fee was minimal compared to the health benefits it offers and expressed hope that the programme would help reduce maternal and child mortality.

Community volunteers, ward development committees, and religious and traditional leaders were among the many stakeholders present at the event, which is expected to roll out across all 23 local government areas in the state.