Professor Usman Yusuf, the former Executive Secretary of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), has been granted bail by a Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court in Abuja. Justice Chinyere Nwecheonwu delivered the ruling on Thursday morning, though specific conditions of the bail have not been disclosed. 

Prof. Yusuf was arrested on January 29, 2025, at approximately 6:30 p.m., when operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) apprehended him at his Abuja residence in the presence of his family. The arrest was part of an ongoing investigation into allegations of inflating the NHIS Information and Communication Technology budget from N4.975 billion to N8.7 billion and approving payments beyond his authorized limit. 

Following his arrest, Prof. Yusuf faced a five-count charge, including embezzlement and abuse of office during his tenure at NHIS from 2016 to 2019. He pleaded not guilty to all charges. On February 3, 2025, the court ordered his remand at Kuje Correctional Centre, where he remained until the bail ruling on February 27. 

In a statement released after his bail, Prof. Yusuf expressed gratitude to Nigerians and the international community for their support and prayers during his detention. He reaffirmed his commitment to fighting corruption, injustice, and bad governance in Nigeria, stating that he is confident truth and justice will prevail in his case.

The EFCC's investigation also alleges that Prof. Yusuf awarded contracts to Lubekh Nigeria Limited, a company where his nephew, Khalifa Hassan Yusufu, serves as a director. These contracts were reportedly approved without adhering to proper procedures and were awarded to companies lacking the necessary competence. 

As the legal proceedings continue, Prof. Yusuf maintains his innocence, emphasizing his unwavering resolve to address the charges against him through the judicial system.