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The initiative will reduce out-of-pocket medical expenses while extending healthcare coverage to civil servants and up to five eligible dependants.
The Kwara State Government has commenced the implementation of its State Health Insurance Scheme for civil servants, with workers contributing two per cent of their salaries while the government provides a matching two per cent counterpart contribution.
The arrangement, which reflects a 50:50 cost-sharing model between the government and workers, is part of efforts to expand access to quality and sustainable healthcare for public servants and reduce their reliance on out-of-pocket medical expenses.
The two per cent workers’ contribution has been reflected in the September 2026 salary payroll, following negotiations between the state government and organised labour.
Under the scheme, enrolled civil servants will be entitled to health insurance coverage, including coverage for up to five dependants below the age of 18, as well as dependent students under their direct care.
The contributions from both the workers and the state government will be ring-fenced for the purchase of healthcare services from accredited healthcare providers across Kwara State.
The Kwara State Health Insurance Agency (KWHIA) will manage the funds and administer the scheme, with emphasis on transparency, accountability and effective service delivery.
To strengthen the implementation process, a multi-stakeholder implementation committee has been inaugurated by the Office of the Head of Service. The committee comprises representatives of the Office of the Head of Service, Ministry of Finance, Office of the Accountant General, organised labour unions and KWHIA.
The committee is expected to monitor the implementation of the scheme, review milestones, address emerging concerns and receive regular updates on its progress.
Meanwhile, KWHIA has concluded technical and logistical arrangements with accredited healthcare providers across the state, with enrolled civil servants and their eligible dependants scheduled to begin accessing healthcare services from December 1, 2026.
Ahead of the commencement of salary deductions, the agency conducted sensitisation exercises across Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) to educate workers on the scheme, its benefits and implementation procedures.
The agency also said arrangements were being made to register civil servants who were not captured during the initial enrolment exercise conducted between April and July 2026.
The additional enrolment process will also provide an opportunity for workers to complete biometric verification and select their preferred accredited healthcare facilities ahead of the December commencement date.
The Executive Secretary of KWHIA, Dr. Olubunmi Jetawo-Winter, urged civil servants requiring clarification or further information to contact the agency at House 27B, Ahmadu Bello Way, GRA, Ilorin, or call the toll-free line 08001001001.
The Office of the Head of Service will also remain available to provide guidance and support to workers throughout the implementation process.
The state government commended organised labour and the leadership of the public service for their cooperation and understanding, describing the collaboration as important to building a healthier, more productive and resilient workforce.
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