Felix Sunday
The Adamawa State Contributory Health Management Agency (ASCHMA) has successfully enrolled approximately 250,000 residents into its healthcare scheme, marking a major milestone in the state’s drive to expand access to affordable medical services.
The scheme, designed by the state government, seeks to improve healthcare coverage by encouraging wider participation in contributory funding, particularly among public and informal sector workers. An ongoing awareness campaign, running until April 15, 2026, targets local government employees and communities across the state.
Speaking on Thursday, the Executive Secretary of ASCHMA, Dr Emos Ujulu, revealed that the agency has secured collaboration from major unions, including the Nigeria Union of Teachers, the National Union of Local Government Employees, and the Medical and Health Workers Union, all of whom have committed to enrolling their members.
“The scheme covers 95 per cent of illnesses, including surgeries. While high-tech procedures like MRI scans are partially excluded, we cover 50 per cent of their cost,” Ujulu said, highlighting the scheme’s comprehensive benefits.
The agency is also expanding participation to informal sector workers, including market women, Keke NAPEP (tricycle) operators, and farmers, with contributions deducted through their respective labour unions.
Launched in 2020, ASCHMA aims to ensure that Adamawa residents have reliable access to affordable healthcare while providing financial protection against medical costs. Ujulu explained that the agency is now fully operational, with all departments in place to manage enrolments and service delivery.
“The Adamawa Contributory Health Management Agency was established to provide financial risk protection and achieve universal health coverage for residents through both formal and informal sectors,” he said.
Officials say the expanded enrolment and outreach initiatives are expected to increase healthcare access significantly, reduce out-of-pocket medical expenses, and strengthen the state’s health system as it works toward universal coverage.
This move positions Adamawa as one of the leading states in Nigeria actively implementing contributory health schemes to meet the growing healthcare needs of its population.
Juliet Ezeh is the founder and chief reporter at Westbridge Reporters with over 7 years of experience in journalism. She covers crime, industry, policy, and social developments, delivering timely and accurate reporting.