The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has apprehended Professor Usman Yusuf, the former executive secretary of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), on allegations of awarding contracts to family members and inflating the agency’s budget during his tenure. This arrest underscores the Nigerian government’s ongoing efforts to combat corruption within its institutions.

Details of the Arrest

On Wednesday, January 29, 2025, EFCC operatives conducted a raid on Professor Yusuf’s residence in Abuja, leading to his arrest. The operation was confirmed by the EFCC’s Head of Media and Publicity, Dele Oyewale, who stated that Yusuf would be arraigned on Thursday, January 30, 2025.

Allegations Against Professor Yusuf

Investigations by the EFCC have revealed several allegations against Professor Yusuf:

1. Awarding Contracts to Family Members: Yusuf is accused of awarding contracts to companies linked to his relatives. Notably, Lubekh Nigeria Limited, where his nephew, Khalifa Hassan Yusufu, serves as a director, received contracts during his tenure.
2. Inflation of ICT Budget: He allegedly inflated the NHIS’s Information and Communication Technology budget from ₦4.975 billion to ₦8.7 billion without proper justification.
3. Approval of Payments Beyond Authority: Yusuf is also accused of approving payments that exceeded his authorized limit, bypassing established financial protocols.

Background and Previous Controversies

Professor Yusuf’s tenure at the NHIS has been marred by controversies:

• Suspensions: In 2017, he was suspended by the Federal Ministry of Health over allegations of misconduct and corruption. A panel set up by the ministry found him guilty of mismanagement involving ₦919 million. Despite his suspension, Yusuf was reinstated by President Muhammadu Buhari in February 2018, a move that sparked widespread criticism.
• Final Dismissal: In July 2019, following further investigations and mounting allegations, President Buhari approved Yusuf’s dismissal from the NHIS. He was subsequently replaced by Professor Mohammed Sambo.

Reactions and Implications

The arrest of Professor Yusuf has elicited various reactions:

• Public Outcry: Many Nigerians have expressed frustration over the recurring instances of corruption among public officials, especially in agencies critical to public welfare like the NHIS.
• Calls for Transparency: There is a renewed demand for transparency and accountability in the management of public funds. Stakeholders are urging the government to strengthen oversight mechanisms to prevent such abuses of power.

The Role of the NHIS

The National Health Insurance Scheme was established to provide accessible and affordable healthcare to Nigerians. Mismanagement and corruption within the agency have hindered its ability to achieve these objectives, leaving many citizens without essential health coverage.

EFCC’s Commitment to Combating Corruption

The EFCC’s actions against Professor Yusuf highlight its dedication to addressing corruption within public institutions. By holding former officials accountable, the commission aims to deter future misconduct and restore public trust in governmental agencies.

Conclusion

The arrest of Professor Usman Yusuf marks a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s fight against corruption. As the legal proceedings unfold, it remains imperative for the judiciary to ensure a fair and transparent process. This case serves as a reminder of the need for continuous vigilance and reform to uphold integrity within public institutions.