Nigeria has reached a significant milestone in its drive for Universal Health Coverage (UHC), with 19.2 million citizens now enrolled in health insurance schemes.
The announcement was made by the Director-General of the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), Dr. Kelechi Ohiri, during a roundtable event held in Abuja to commemorate the 2024 Universal Health Coverage Day.
The enrollment figure exceeds NHIA’s 2024 target and places the country at 95% of its 2027 presidential goal for nationwide health insurance coverage.
Themed “Health Should Reflect the Aspirations of Governance,” the event brought together stakeholders to review progress, discuss challenges, and outline strategies to achieve UHC.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Ohiri described the achievement as a major step forward for Nigeria’s healthcare system.
“We are proud to announce that 19.2 million Nigerians have been covered by health insurance. This surpasses our 2024 target and places us within striking distance of achieving 95% of the 2027 presidential target,” he said.
Dr. Ohiri attributed the success to strategic reforms, effective stakeholder collaboration, and the expansion of the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund (BHCPF).
He also emphasized the role of partnerships with state health insurance agencies in achieving the milestone.
“This milestone reflects the Federal Government’s commitment to delivering quality healthcare as outlined in the National Health Act,” he added.
However, he acknowledged persistent challenges in the healthcare sector, such as inadequate funding, infrastructure deficits, and workforce shortages.
To address these gaps, the NHIA is implementing a strategic roadmap for 2025–2027 that includes scaling up digital enrollment and integrating informal sector workers into the insurance scheme.
“We should prioritize Primary Health Care (PHC) as the bedrock of our health system,” Dr. Ohiri urged, calling on state governments and private stakeholders to sustain the momentum.
Yobe State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Muhammad Lawal, highlighted the importance of UHC for vulnerable populations.
“There should be no negotiation for the health of the people, especially the vulnerable segments of the population,” he said.
Similarly, Dr. Bolanle Olusola-Faleye of the USAID LHSS Project praised the reforms driving progress, particularly the Sector-Wide Approach (SWAp) and its harmonized Annual Operational Plan.
“This is a remarkable time to celebrate UHC Day, with reforms like SWAp ensuring better coordination and outcomes,” she noted.
Public health advocate and Co-convener of the UHC2023 Forum, Dr. Garfa Alawode, lauded the achievement but emphasized the need for sustained efforts.
“As Nigeria inches closer to its 2027 health insurance target, we must ensure that these gains are not only maintained but also translated into improved health outcomes for all citizens,” he said.
Universal Health Coverage Day, observed annually on December 12, is a global advocacy event aimed at promoting equitable and affordable healthcare for all.
This year’s commemoration comes with renewed optimism as Nigeria accelerates its progress toward UHC.
With 19.2 million Nigerians now insured, the NHIA’s efforts underscore the potential of health insurance schemes to transform the country’s healthcare landscape.
