The Zamfara State government has approved a 50% reduction in hospital service charges and medical bills for persons with disabilities (PWDs) across all state-owned health facilities, officials said on Saturday.
The approval was granted by Governor Dauda Lawal, according to a statement issued by Ibrahim S. Adam, media aide to the Executive Chairman of the Zamfara State Persons with Disabilities Board (ZSPwDB), Usman Ahmad Nahuche.
The board welcomed the decision, describing it as a major step toward inclusive healthcare and improved social protection for people living with disabilities in the state.
“This policy reflects the administration’s rescue mission agenda and its commitment to leaving no one behind, especially vulnerable groups,” the statement said.
The board noted that the approval followed consultations with medical professionals and health stakeholders during the recently concluded Central and West Zonal Town Hall meetings, where disability-inclusive healthcare and access to affordable medical services were key discussion points.
To ensure effective implementation, the ZSPwDB said it plans to engage the Ministry of Health to clarify operational guidelines, raise awareness among healthcare providers and strengthen collaboration with government hospitals to ensure uniform application of the policy statewide.
The board also urged persons with disabilities to obtain valid identification cards once implementation modalities are fully defined, to enable them to benefit from the discount.
Nahuche reaffirmed the board’s commitment to working closely with the Ministry of Health and other relevant government agencies to ensure the policy is fully implemented and delivers tangible benefits.
He also expressed appreciation to Governor Lawal for what he described as consistent support for improving the welfare and dignity of persons with disabilities in Zamfara.
