Source: Agency Report

An image of a couple sourced from pixabay, used to illustrate a story

The Chairman of Kudan Local Government Area (LGA) in Kaduna State, Dauda Abba, has proposed a new by-law that would require couples to enroll in the state’s health insurance scheme—Kaduna State Contributory Health Management Authority (KADCHMA)—before getting married.

This initiative, part of a broader campaign to boost enrollment in KADCHMA, aims to increase healthcare access and financial protection for residents, especially women.

A Health-Based Prerequisite for Marriage

According to Mr Abba, couples must present their KADCHMA enrollment cards before their wedding ceremonies can proceed. He disclosed plans to send an Executive Order to the local legislative arm to formalize the by-law within the next two to three weeks.

The chairman said that this requirement would not only improve health outcomes for couples and families but also create widespread awareness of the scheme’s benefits. He noted that the N10,650 annual fee covers a range of essential health services, including antenatal care and delivery—making it a vital tool for tackling maternal mortality.

“This policy will ensure that more residents, particularly women, have access to quality healthcare,” Mr Abba emphasized.

He also announced plans to enroll 1,000 people immediately and scale up by another 1,000 following the first phase’s success.

Political Aspirants Must Comply

In a further push for widespread adoption, the proposed by-law would also require all political office aspirants in the LGA to be enrolled in KADCHMA. “This is about demonstrating leadership and responsibility,” the chairman stated.

He called on traditional and religious leaders, as well as other community influencers, to promote the scheme at the grassroots level.

KADCHMA’s Drive for Universal Coverage

Speaking at the same event, KADCHMA Director-General Abubakar Hassan reaffirmed the scheme’s commitment to ensuring that all residents of Kaduna State access affordable, quality healthcare without financial hardship.

He explained that the campaign targets rural areas and local communities, with traditional rulers and local government officials playing key roles in mobilization.

“The N10,650 covers services from antenatal to delivery, including cases with complications like cesarean sections,” Mr Hassan said, stressing that over 50 successful births have already occurred under the scheme.

He described the program as a pillar of Governor Uba Sani’s Rural Transformation Agenda, focused on reducing maternal and child mortality and expanding healthcare access.

Community Leaders Applaud the Move

District Head of Kudan, Halliru Mahmood, endorsed the initiative, describing it as a strategic investment in public health.

“The benefits far outweigh the cost. This program will offer financial protection and reduce the burden of healthcare costs on families,” he said, encouraging households to enroll.

The meeting also involved key development partners including EngenderHealth Consortium, International Society for Media in Public Health (ISMPH), Centre for Communication and Social Impact (CCSI), and Legislative Advocacy Initiative for Sustainable Development Goals (LISDEL).

Next Steps

KADCHMA’s enrollment campaign will extend to other LGAs such as Kagarko and Chikun, and eventually across all 23 LGAs of the state.