The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) has intensified efforts to bring more Nigerians under health insurance coverage, hosting a major stakeholder engagement forum in Ogun State on Monday.
The gathering, which drew healthcare providers, civil society groups, community representatives, and enrollee advocates, focused on boosting awareness, tackling implementation challenges, and charting the path toward achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) by 2030.
Speaking at the event, Ogun State NHIA Coordinator, Mr. Adegboyega Adefeso, emphasized that health insurance cannot succeed without collective responsibility. He pointed to key government-backed interventions such as Comprehensive Emergency Obstetrics Care (CEMOC) and the Free Fistula Programme as examples of initiatives breaking barriers for families in need.
“The Authority is committed to ensuring no Nigerian is left behind in accessing affordable, quality healthcare. With more collaboration, we can build a stronger system and protect people from financial hardship,” Adefeso said.
The forum was also marked by an emotional testimonial from Mr. Gbenga Oriji, a CEMOC beneficiary, who recounted how the programme saved his wife and newborn during a life-threatening emergency.
“My wife and baby are alive today because of this programme. I’m deeply grateful and I urge others to take advantage of these schemes — they truly save lives,” Oriji shared.
Participants engaged in discussions around enrollee rights, claims management, and the enforcement of the NHIA Act 2022, while stressing the need for communities to spread awareness about available schemes.
Despite reforms, health insurance penetration in Nigeria remains low. According to the Health Care Providers Association of Nigeria, more than 90 percent of citizens are still without any form of coverage, leaving many to pay for healthcare out-of-pocket.
NHIA Director-General, Dr. Kelechi Ohiri, revealed that about 19.2 million Nigerians are currently enrolled in different health insurance schemes, surpassing the authority’s 2024 target. However, that figure represents only about 10 percent of the population.
To bridge the gap, the Federal Government has set a goal of enrolling 44 million Nigerians by 2030, a move expected to reduce financial strain on households and bring the nation closer to universal access to healthcare.