The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) and other health experts say it’s important to make health insurance a top priority. They want it to be easy for everyone to get, no matter their background or how much money they have.
They explained that health insurance is important because it helps people get better healthcare, prevents unnecessary deaths, and saves lives.
According to the NHIA Act passed in 2022, health insurance is now required for all Nigerians and legal residents.
So far, about 19.2 million people have signed up for health insurance.
At a recent meeting in Lagos, called “Health Insurance: A Priority to Improve Health Outcomes,” health experts talked about the problems that stop people from getting health insurance. They also discussed ways to solve these problems and said health insurance is key to making sure everyone in Nigeria can get healthcare.
The meeting was organized by the NHIA Yaba State Office. It brought together people working in the health insurance sector, including government officials. They shared ideas on how to improve health through insurance, increase enrolment, and expand the reach of health insurance.
Mrs. Rita Chukwu, the NHIA Coordinator in Yaba, welcomed everyone and encouraged them to work together with the NHIA to make sure no one is left out of health insurance.
She said the reason they gathered was because they believe that affordable and complete health insurance should be a basic right for everyone, not just a special benefit.
She thanked the participants for showing their commitment to making health insurance a key part of better health, a stronger economy, and a better society.
She said it’s important for all stakeholders and those enrolled in insurance to unite and work on the big challenge of making sure everyone gets fair and enough healthcare.
She explained that, especially with healthcare costs rising and some people still not getting the care they need, it’s clear that health insurance isn’t just about money — it’s about giving people better access to care, preventing illness, and saving lives.
She added that everyone at the event is working to find smart solutions, learn from each other, and stay committed to making health insurance something that works for all — rich or poor.
She also promised that the NHIA will keep working to fix unfairness in healthcare access, especially for vulnerable people.
Dr. Emmanuelle Zamba, a top official in Lagos State, agreed and said health insurance helps people get medical care without worrying about the cost. This is very important for poor families who often can’t afford treatment.
Mrs. Abiola Paul-Ozieh, head of the Healthcare Providers Association in Lagos, said making healthcare more affordable and accessible can help people better manage long-term illnesses, improve care for mothers and children, and improve the nation’s health overall.
She highlighted that health insurance is necessary for reaching universal health coverage, where everyone can get quality healthcare without suffering financially.
She confirmed that when people can afford the care they need, health insurance helps improve their health and quality of life.
