19.2 Million Nigerians Enrolled in Health Insurance, NHIA Announces Progress Toward UHC
The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) has achieved a significant milestone in its Universal Health Coverage (UHC) drive, with 19.2 million Nigerians now enrolled in health insurance schemes. This achievement surpasses the Authority’s 2024 target and represents 95% of Nigeria’s 2027 presidential goal for health insurance coverage.
Dr. Kelechi Ohiri, the Director-General of NHIA, disclosed this at a roundtable in Abuja marking the 2024 Universal Health Coverage Day. With the theme “Health Should Reflect the Aspirations of Governance,” the event served as a platform to evaluate UHC progress, identify obstacles, and set strategies for future advancement.
Key Achievements
Dr. Ohiri expressed pride in surpassing the 2024 target:
“We are proud to announce that 19.2 million Nigerians have been covered by health insurance. This places us within striking distance of achieving 95% of the 2027 presidential target.”
He credited this success to reforms like the expansion of the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund (BHCPF) and partnerships with state health insurance agencies. Dr. Ohiri emphasized the Federal Government’s commitment to quality healthcare as outlined in the National Health Act.
Challenges and Future Strategies
Despite this progress, challenges persist, including funding shortfalls, infrastructure gaps, and a shortage of skilled health workers. Dr. Ohiri outlined strategic priorities for 2025–2027, including:
- Scaling up digital enrollment systems.
- Expanding coverage to include informal sector workers.
- Strengthening Primary Health Care (PHC) as the foundation of the health system.
“We urge state governments and private stakeholders to intensify efforts to sustain this momentum and address remaining coverage gaps,” Dr. Ohiri said.
Support from Stakeholders
Public health advocates and development partners highlighted the importance of sustaining the momentum.
Dr. Muhammad Lawal, Yobe State Commissioner for Health, emphasized the need for prioritizing healthcare for vulnerable populations:
“There should be no negotiation for the health of the people, especially the vulnerable segments of the population.”
Dr. Bolanle Olusola-Faleye of the USAID LHSS Project praised reforms such as the Sector-Wide Approach (SWAp) for improving coordination and outcomes across states.
Dr. Garfa Alawode, Co-convener of the UHC2023 Forum, described the milestone as commendable but stressed the need for increased funding, political commitment, and effective monitoring:
“As Nigeria inches closer to its 2027 health insurance target, we must ensure that these gains translate into improved health outcomes for all citizens.”
Renewed Optimism
The announcement comes during the commemoration of UHC Day on December 12, a global advocacy day to promote equitable, affordable, and accessible healthcare without financial hardship. With 19.2 million Nigerians already covered, the event reflects growing optimism about Nigeria’s ability to achieve UHC by 2027, ensuring healthier and more resilient communities nationwide.
