The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) has reaffirmed its commitment to achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) in Nigeria by 2030.
Speaking at the 2024 Gatefield Health Summit in Abuja, NHIA director-general, Dr. Kelechi Ohiri outlined key strategies to ensure every Nigerian has access to affordable and quality healthcare services. Represented by deputy director, Olufemi Adeoye, Ohiri highlighted ongoing efforts to expand health insurance coverage, particularly in the informal sector and rural areas.
“The informal sector is a significant portion of our population, and we cannot achieve UHC without including these individuals,” he said. Ohiri also discussed new financing models, including the NHIA digital platform, a tech-driven initiative to streamline enrollment and claims processing.
According to him, this platform will enhance system efficiency and transparency, ultimately improving healthcare access across the country. “We are moving toward a more inclusive and transparent system that prioritises the health needs of all Nigerians,” he added.
Under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, the NHIA has strengthened partnerships with state governments and private insurers to develop customised insurance packages for different regions. Ohiri noted that these collaborations are essential for the sustainability of the health insurance scheme and building a stronger healthcare financing structure.
The NHIA has also engaged policymakers to ensure sustained funding for health insurance programs. Ohiri expressed optimism that legislative backing will provide the necessary framework for achieving UHC in line with global health goals.
He called for increased collaboration from the private sector and civil society to push forward the UHC agenda. “Achieving UHC is a collective effort, and we need the participation of all stakeholders to make this a reality by 2030,” he stated.
The NHIA, formerly the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), has been transformed to expand its mandate and achieve broader health coverage in Nigeria. Ohiri emphasised ongoing efforts to address the healthcare needs of the most vulnerable populations.
At the summit, Gatefield’s lead strategist, Adewunmi Emoruwa highlighted key issues, including the growing obesity epidemic, the burden of caring for people with NCDs, and the primary healthcare system’s role in NCD prevention and control. He also emphasised the impact of environmental factors like air quality on public health.
Building on last year’s success, which included a Presidential commitment to allocate 10 per cent of the national budget to healthcare, this year’s summit aims to rally further support to address the NCD crisis.
