By Musa Abdullahi Sufi | Jigawa, Nigeria
In a decisive move to ease the burden of chronic diseases, the Jigawa State Government under the leadership of Governor Umar Namadi has approved the provision of free medical care and essential drugs for patients suffering from sickle cell disorder, hypertension, and diabetes across the state.
This groundbreaking policy builds on the administration’s earlier initiative of providing free dialysis for kidney failure patients, firmly positioning Jigawa as one of the leading states in pro-poor healthcare delivery in Nigeria.
A Pro-Poor Policy with Human Impact
Governor Namadi’s directive is designed to directly confront the pain and financial strain endured by thousands of Jigawa residents battling lifelong illnesses. By ensuring that medications are available free of charge at the 12 General Hospitals across the state, the government is not only saving lives but also removing a crippling financial burden from vulnerable households.
“This initiative by Governor Namadi is part of the broader effort to reduce the suffering and hardship experienced by many families. From now on, anyone living with hypertension, sickle cell disease, or diabetes will be able to access free medication in Jigawa’s major hospitals,” said Isa Surajo, Technical Adviser on Health, Office of the Governor, Jigawa State.
Implementation Through Partnership
The Ministry of Health has already engaged with leaders of patient associations and hospital management teams to ensure smooth rollout. Essential medications have been supplied to the designated hospitals, and patients are encouraged to consult their doctors or association leaders to guide them in accessing the services.
According to health officials, this collaborative approach is key to ensuring that patients are not only aware of the program but also fully able to benefit from it.
Putting People First
By extending healthcare support beyond dialysis to include other chronic conditions, the Namadi administration is sending a powerful message: every life matters, and access to healthcare must never be a privilege reserved for the wealthy.
Public health experts predict that the initiative will significantly improve outcomes by reducing complications, lowering mortality, and enabling families to focus on building productive lives rather than being consumed by hospital bills.
A Call to Action
Residents living with these chronic conditions are encouraged to take advantage of the program by visiting the designated hospitals or reaching out through their association leaders. The government has pledged continuous drug supply to guarantee the sustainability of the initiative.
With this bold step, Governor Umar Namadi is not only reinforcing Jigawa’s healthcare system but also demonstrating an unwavering commitment to the wellbeing of the poor and vulnerable, ensuring that the state sets the pace in compassionate, people-centered governance.
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