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The Director General of the National Health Insurance Authority, Dr. Kelechi Ohiri, announced that the Federal Government has set a lofty goal to enroll at least 40 percent of the Nigerian population in health insurance programs by 2030.
This target highlights the government’s resolve to make healthcare more accessible and affordable, paving the way for broader participation in health insurance schemes that can significantly impact public health outcomes.
Dr. Ohiri emphasized that the goal is not just a numerical target, but a key component of the government’s ongoing efforts to ensure universal health coverage across the country. By reaching this target, the government hopes to create a system where all Nigerians can access essential and high-quality healthcare services, helping to bridge the existing gaps in the healthcare sector.
Speaking at the annual conference and induction of the Health and Managed Care Association of Nigeria on Thursday, the NHIA Director General lamented the growing gap in health insurance coverage. He noted that despite progress in some areas, there remains a vast unmet need for insurance, leaving millions without the financial protection needed for quality healthcare.
He pointed out that, despite being in operation for over 20 years, the state of Nigeria’s health insurance industry remains a long way from where it ought to be. The industry, he noted, still faces significant challenges in achieving its potential to provide widespread coverage and ensure that all Nigerians have access to affordable healthcare.
He voiced his deep concern that almost 99 percent of Nigerians employed in the informal sector remain excluded from health insurance packages. This stark statistic underscores a critical challenge in expanding coverage to all segments of the population, particularly those in informal work who are most at risk of facing financial hardship due to healthcare expenses.
Ohiri, who was also the keynote speaker for the conference, noted that health insurance was essential for preventing financial hardship and ensuring that individuals can access quality healthcare without fear of financial ruin.
He outlined four key areas of focus, including expanding coverage to all Nigerians, improving equity to ensure that nobody is left behind, improving the quality of care, and ensuring that the entire industry is working efficiently and sustainably.
He added that achieving these goals would require the collaboration of all stakeholders, including the government, private sector, and civil society organisations.
To achieve these goals, the NHIA DG stressed the importance of enforcing the mandate, creating awareness, and building trust among citizens.
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He noted that the NHIA Act of 2022 makes it mandatory for employers to provide health insurance for their employees and that the government must find ways to enforce this mandate.
He also emphasised the need for more awareness about the benefits of health insurance, as well as the need to rebuild trust in the system.
“All of us have a role to play. Both the HMOs, the state health insurance schemes, the providers, the doctors and health workers as well as us as the NHIA.
“So, outlining what we can all do together to make sure Nigeria moves forward and most Nigerians are protected from this high cost of healthcare,” he explained.
On his part, the Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, stressed the importance of restoring health into the mainstream economy.
Abayomi noted that healthcare provision is a service that has two components, which include providing health to those who can afford it, and providing health to those who are vulnerable.
He emphasised the role of the government in providing succour to vulnerable members of the community through subsidising health, equity funding, and provision of basic healthcare needs.
The health commissioner stated that the government must promote the concept of insurance to minimise out-of-pocket spending.
He noted that out-of-pocket spending could be catastrophic for individuals and families, and that insurance provides a safety net that can help prevent financial hardship.
He added that the government must work to improve the quality of healthcare services, ensuring that individuals have access to quality care that meets their needs.
One of the panellists, Otunba Lekan Ewenla, stressed the need for health maintenance organisations and healthcare providers to understand that healthcare is a business that must be driven with all the paraphernalia of business.
Ewenla, who is also the Managing Director/CEO of Ultimate Health Management, highlighted the importance of strict regulation and enforcement of laws to ensure compliance.
