Ex-NHIS Boss Usman Yusuf Granted N5 Million Bail in Alleged N90 Million Fraud Case

A Federal Capital Territory High Court in Kuje, Abuja, has granted bail to former Executive Secretary of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), Usman Yusuf, who is facing trial over alleged financial misconduct.

Justice Chinyere Nwecheonwu set Yusuf’s bail at N5 million, requiring two sureties who must provide proof of their means of livelihood, either through business or civil service, along with valid identification. The court also directed that their addresses be verified by the prosecution or court staff.

Yusuf, who served as NHIS chief between 2016 and 2017, is accused of fraud amounting to N90,439,178. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) alleges that he abused his office to gain undue financial advantages, including awarding contracts without following due process.

Among the charges against him, Yusuf allegedly authorised the purchase of a vehicle for N49,197,750—well above the allocated N30,000,000 budget. He is also accused of awarding a N10.1 million training contract to a foundation linked to him, with only half of the intended beneficiaries participating. Another allegation states that he awarded a N17.5 million media consultancy contract to a company owned by his nephew, bypassing procurement regulations.

Yusuf was arraigned by the EFCC on February 3, 2025, and pleaded not guilty to all five charges. The court initially scheduled the next hearing for April 3, but due to the Sallah holiday, the trial has been adjourned to May 15, 2025.