The Niger State Contributory Health Agency-NiCare has conducted a one-day capacity-building training for its staff on the implementation of the revised Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF 2.0) guidelines, reinforcing its commitment to effective programme execution and expanded health coverage for residents of Niger State. The training, held at the Agency’s Conference Hall, brought together programme managers and key operational, technical, and administrative personnel. The Ministerial Oversight Committee of the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, in collaboration with stakeholders, recently reviewed the BHCPF implementation framework and introduced BHCPF 2.0 to strengthen primary healthcare financing. The upgraded guidelines focus on performance-based financing, improved digital tracking systems, enhanced accountability, and increased access for vulnerable populations. As the agency managing the Health Insurance Gateway of BHCPF in Niger State, NiCare plays a critical role in beneficiary enrolment, claims management, and timely disbursement of capitation and reimbursement payments to accredited healthcare providers. Representing the Executive Secretary/CEO, the Director of Health Planning, Research and Statistics, Pharm. Musa Abdul, described BHCPF 2.0 as a transformative reform requiring robust institutional systems and measurable performance outcomes. “BHCPF 2.0 presents a strategic opportunity to enhance accountability and extend coverage to the most vulnerable citizens of Niger State,” he said, urging staff to maintain full compliance with national standards while upholding transparency and operational efficiency. He reaffirmed the Executive Secretary’s commitment to strengthening institutional capacity and positioning NiCare as a model state health insurance agency under the new framework. During the training, NiCare BHCPF Lead Maryam Shuaibu, explained that the programme was designed to deepen staff understanding of the revised guidelines, improve efficiency in claims processing, strengthen compliance with financial and reporting standards, and enhance digital data management. She noted that the initiative aligns NiCare’s processes with national directives on vulnerable group enrolment and reinforces ethical fund administration.
