On Monday, December 16, the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) revealed that 19.2 million Nigerians are now enrolled in health insurance schemes, surpassing its 2024 target. This milestone brings the country closer to its 2027 goal of providing health insurance to 95% of its population.
Kelechi Ohiri, the Director-General of the NHIA, shared this achievement during a Universal Health Coverage (UHC) Day roundtable in Abuja, where discussions focused on Nigeria’s efforts toward universal health coverage, challenges faced, and future actions. The roundtable was part of activities to mark the 2024 UHC Day.
“We are proud to announce that 19.2 million Nigerians have been covered by health insurance,” Mr. Ohiri stated. “This surpasses our 2024 target and brings us within reach of the 2027 presidential goal of covering 95% of Nigerians.”
The NHIA’s success is attributed to strategic policy reforms, collaborations with stakeholders, and a commitment to universal health coverage. The agency has expanded the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund (BHCPF) and partnered with state health insurance agencies to make healthcare more affordable, especially for vulnerable populations.
Despite challenges such as funding limitations, poor infrastructure, and a shortage of healthcare workers, the NHIA remains optimistic. Mr. Ohiri highlighted the agency’s roadmap for 2025–2027, which includes scaling up digital enrollment and integrating informal sector workers into the health insurance scheme.
During the roundtable, Muhammad Lawal, the Commissioner for Health in Yobe, emphasized the need to prioritize the health of all Nigerians, particularly the vulnerable. He stressed that health should not be negotiable and that UHC is achievable with continued efforts.
Bolanle Olusola-Faleye of the USAID LHSS Project commended the progress made through reforms like the Sector Wide Approach (SWAP), which has helped align healthcare priorities across states.
Public health advocates have praised the progress but urged more action to ensure that every Nigerian has access to affordable, quality healthcare. Garfa Alawode, co-convener of the UHC2023 Forum, called for sustained political will, increased funding, and stronger monitoring to ensure the gains lead to improved health outcomes for all.
UHC Day is a global event aimed at raising awareness about the importance of providing equitable and affordable healthcare for everyone, without financial hardship.
