By Abdul-Azeez Suleiman
The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) has urged Nigerians to seize the opportunities provided by the scheme to enhance their health and wellness.
The Executive Secretary, Professor Mohammed Sambo made the call in a message of felicitation with Nigerians on the occasion of the 63rd Independence Anniversary.
“We extend warm wishes of a happy and contemplative Independence Day anniversary to all Nigerians. As we mark the occasion of our country’s independence, let us also recognize the progress made in the improvement of the health and well-being of Nigerians.
The NHIA boss stated that “It is essential for Nigerians to utilize the scheme to access quality healthcare services and contribute to building a healthy society.” He also emphasized the importance of cooperation with the NHIA to ensure the success and sustainability of the program.
The NHIA has been working tirelessly to provide affordable and quality healthcare services to Nigerians through its Health Insurance Scheme. The scheme has been a tremendous success, ensuring access to primary healthcare services for over 70 million Nigerians.
Sambo said that government has a critical role to play in accelerating NHIA implementation by providing adequate funding, and stressed the need to strengthen the governance structure and create an enabling environment for health insurance to thrive.
The NHIA boss said that health financing was incomplete without considering the level of socio-economic development of a country.
He said the country cannot finance health insurance without thinking about innovative ways outside the traditional ways.
“We owe it to ourselves and our fellow Nigerians to develop and maintain the health system that we desire both now and in the future.
“All stakeholders within and outside the health sector must work together to improve health insurance in the country,” he said.
According to him, Nigeria must develop relevant policies to ensure effective utilisation of available resources to ensure equitable access to basic healthcare services that leave no one behind.
He said the NHIA appreciates the continuous support and cooperation of Nigerians in ensuring quality healthcare services and reiterated their commitment to serving the Nigerian people and improving the health sector.
“In this special moment, we would like to recognize and appreciate the phenomenal efforts of the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) in advancing the cause of quality healthcare delivery to Nigerians.
“The NHIA has made significant strides in increasing healthcare access and affordability for all Nigerians. The introduction of the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund is one of their notable initiatives, aimed at providing essential healthcare services to every Nigerian, irrespective of income.
“Furthermore, the NHIA has been working tirelessly to expand healthcare coverage across the country and create awareness of the importance of preventive healthcare measures. Through collaborations with various stakeholders, the NHIA has fostered positive changes in the healthcare sector.
“As we celebrate our nation’s independence, we urge Nigerians to prioritize their health and wellbeing and support the efforts of the NHIA in achieving universal health coverage for all Nigerians. Let us continue to strive for a better Nigeria, where quality healthcare is accessible to all. Happy Independence Day, Nigeria!” Professor Sambo said.
