The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) has reaffirmed its dedication to delivering quality healthcare services while upholding transparency and accountability across all its operations.
This renewed commitment is evident in its robust support for the Fistula-Free Programme (FFP), which offers vital medical care to women suffering from obstetric fistula.
NHIA’s director-general, Dr. Kelechi Ohiri made this known in a statement issued to journalists on Thursday in Abuja.
During a courtesy visit to the Fistula Centre at Gwarinpa General Hospital in Abuja, Ohiri emphasised the critical role of credible data entry, accurate claims validation and accountability in ensuring the programme’s sustainability and effectiveness.
“The FFP represents an innovative financing approach that enables poor and vulnerable women affected by obstetric fistula to access quality treatment at no cost. The integration of third-party administrators for independent claims verification has significantly boosted transparency and enhanced resource efficiency,” Ohiri stated.
He noted that the visit underlines the NHIA’s strategic role in broadening access to comprehensive fistula care through sustainable funding mechanisms and partnerships with accredited healthcare centres nationwide.
“With improved data systems and a strong community-driven approach, the authority is not just providing medical services; we are restoring dignity, hope and a better future for thousands of women across Nigeria,” he said.
Welcoming the NHIA delegation, medical director of Gwarinpa General Hospital, Dr. Moriamo Shaibu noted that the centre has recorded a success rate of over 90 per cent in fistula repair surgeries, treating women from various states, including Zamfara and Cross River.
Head of the fistula centre, Dr. Halima Bello highlighted that beyond free surgical intervention, the centre offers comprehensive post-operative care, counselling, rehabilitation and continuous follow-up to ensure patients fully recover and reintegrate into their communities.
Science Nigeria reports that obstetric fistula, caused by prolonged and obstructed labour without timely medical care, leads to a hole between the birth canal and the bladder or rectum, resulting in chronic incontinence and severe social stigma. The condition remains preventable and treatable through timely, quality maternal healthcare.
