Renowned healthcare entrepreneur and serial investor, Dr. Richardson Ajayi has cautioned that while the new directive mandating faster treatment authorisation is a step forward, it is not enough to transform Nigeria’s healthcare system.
“Speed alone doesn’t fix the system,” Ajayi told journalists on Monday in Abuja.
Science Nigeria reports that, according to a new directive by the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), healthcare facilities must proceed with treatment if health maintenance organisations (HMOs) fail to issue pre-authorisation codes within one hour of request.
The move aims to enforce a policy designed to reduce treatment delays and promote a more patient-centred approach to care.
Ajayi welcomed the development but warned that deep-rooted structural issues remain.
He pointed out that fewer than five per cent of Nigerians are enrolled in any health insurance scheme, leaving most of the population vulnerable to high out-of-pocket healthcare expenses.
His remarks come amid growing public awareness of the NHIA Act, which outlines key reforms intended to build a more inclusive and efficient health system.
According to the Act, all residents of Nigeria are now required to enrol in a health insurance scheme. The NHIA is mandated to define a minimum package of health services that every insurance plan must cover. Social Health Insurance Schemes – either at the national or state level – will serve as primary insurers, while private health insurance will provide supplementary coverage. A vulnerable group fund has also been established to cover indigent and at-risk populations.
Despite these policy advancements, Ajayi stressed the need for more action. He highlighted the importance of expanding insurance to informal sector workers, improving hospital efficiency through digital systems and consistently enforcing healthcare standards nationwide.
“Regulation is a foundation, not a finish line. We must celebrate progress like faster authorisation timelines but remain focused on building a system that prioritises trust, equity and quality for every Nigerian,” he said.
