The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National Tuberculosis and Buruli Ulcer Control Programme (NTBLCP) to provide health insurance coverage for People Living with HIV (PLHIV) and patients with Drug-Resistant Tuberculosis (DR-TB).
Dr. Kelechi Ohiri, Director-General of the NHIA, disclosed this development during an interview on Tuesday in Abuja.
The agreement also includes collaboration with State Social Health Insurance Agencies (SSHIA) in Anambra, Ebonyi, Gombe, and Kwara States. Dr. Ohiri described the initiative as a significant step toward reducing healthcare disparities in Nigeria.
“The MoU is a major step in ensuring the speedy implementation of the grant,” he stated, adding that NHIA remains committed to improving healthcare access for vulnerable groups across the country.
The programme, which is scheduled for implementation in February, will: Strengthen collaboration between federal and state health agencies, Improve healthcare access for marginalized populations, particularly PLHIV and DR-TB patients, and Ensure high data quality, robust monitoring, and effective training to overcome implementation challenges.
Dr. Ohiri emphasized the initiative’s potential to enhance healthcare equity, saying, “This expansion reflects NHIA’s dedication to promoting healthcare equity and improving the lives of Nigerians through innovative health insurance programmes.”
The initiative sets a foundation for scaling up similar health insurance programs across other states. The NHIA’s goal remains to achieve Universal Health Coverage (UHC) by prioritizing underserved populations.
“Our commitment to addressing healthcare inequities is unwavering. This initiative not only serves as a milestone but also paves the way for sustainable healthcare interventions nationwide,” Dr. Ohiri said.
The collaboration represents a holistic approach to addressing Nigeria’s healthcare challenges, ensuring that vulnerable groups receive the support and care they need.
