The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) has unveiled a comprehensive strategy aimed at achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) in Nigeria, with the goal of ending health poverty and ensuring that every Nigerian has access to affordable and quality healthcare.
Speaking at a roundtable event in Abuja to mark Universal Health Coverage Day, NHIA Director-General Dr. Ohiri Kelechi reiterated the agency’s commitment to tackling the two primary forms of health poverty: those too poor to afford healthcare and those who face financial ruin due to medical emergencies. To address these critical challenges, Dr. Kelechi outlined a four-pronged strategy that includes:
- Expanding health insurance coverage to reach more Nigerians, especially the most vulnerable populations.
- Targeting vulnerable populations, ensuring that healthcare services are accessible to those who need them most.
- Enhancing the quality of healthcare services to guarantee that insured individuals receive effective and efficient treatment.
- Strengthening partnerships across sectors, including government, civil society, and the private sector, to create a sustainable and inclusive healthcare system.
Dr. Kelechi emphasized the need for collaboration across all sectors, stressing that achieving UHC requires a joint effort between the government, civil society, and the private sector.
He called for a collective commitment to ensuring that healthcare becomes both accessible and affordable for all Nigerians.
The Chairperson of the Universal Health Coverage Forum, Mrs. Moji Makanjuola praised the NHIA’s efforts and urged stronger political will and stakeholder engagement to accelerate progress.
She highlighted the healthcare successes of Yobe State, particularly in improving maternal and child health services, as a model for other regions to follow.
The Special Adviser to the President on Health Matters,Dr. Salwa Anas represented by Dr. Tanko Yakasai, also commended the UHC Forum for its role in prioritizing healthcare in Nigeria’s political agenda.
He underscored the importance of ensuring that health policies align with national priorities and foster partnerships across various sectors.
The stakeholders at the event committed to enhancing collaboration to sustain efforts towards providing affordable, accessible, and high-quality healthcare for all Nigerians, marking a significant step toward the realization of Universal Health Coverage in Nigeria.
