NHIA unveils plan to achieve universal health coverage by 2030

The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) has reiterated its commitment to achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) in Nigeria by 2030. This ambitious goal was emphasised by Dr. Kelechi Ohiri, the Director-General of NHIA, during the Gatefield Health Summit 2024, with the theme: “Beyond65.” The summit convened influential global health leaders and advocates to address the rising crisis of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in Nigeria and sub-Saharan Africa, a region where NCDs account for over 37 per cent of deaths—more than one in three fatalities.

In a presentation delivered by Mr. Olufemi Adeoye, the Deputy Director of NHIA, key strategies were outlined to ensure that every Nigerian has access to affordable and quality healthcare services. One of the focal points was the ongoing expansion of health insurance coverage, particularly targeting the informal sector and rural communities, which are often underserved. “The informal sector constitutes a significant portion of our population, and we cannot achieve UHC without bringing these individuals into the insurance fold,” Adeoye stated, emphasising the need for inclusive healthcare solutions. This initiative is crucial as a large part of Nigeria’s workforce operates outside formal employment, leaving many without access to health insurance and essential medical services.

To bolster these efforts, the NHIA is introducing new financing models, including the NHIA Digital Platform. This tech-driven initiative aims to streamline enrolment and claims processing for health insurance beneficiaries, enhancing the efficiency and transparency of the healthcare system. According to Adeoye, this platform will not only improve access to healthcare but also strengthen the overall resilience of the healthcare infrastructure. “We are moving towards a more inclusive and transparent system that prioritises the health needs of all Nigerians,” he noted. “This will not only ensure that no one is left behind but also fortify the resilience of our healthcare system.”

The NHIA, operating under the administration of President Bola Tinubu, has also intensified partnerships with state governments and private insurers to create customised insurance packages tailored to meet the unique health needs of various regions. Adeoye highlighted that these collaborations are essential for sustaining the health insurance scheme and building a more robust healthcare financing structure. As part of its mandate, the NHIA is actively engaging with key policymakers to secure ongoing funding for health insurance programmes. Adeoye expressed optimism that legislative support for NHIA initiatives will provide the necessary framework for achieving UHC in alignment with global health agendas. “Achieving UHC is a collective effort, and we need the active participation of all stakeholders to make this a reality by 2030,” he asserted, calling for increased collaboration from the private sector and civil society organisations.

The NHIA, which evolved from the former National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), has expanded its mandate to encompass broader health coverage across Nigeria. Adeoye emphasised that the agency is intensifying its focus on addressing the healthcare needs of the most vulnerable populations in the country, ensuring that no one is excluded from essential health services.

Earlier in the summit, Mr. Adewunmi Emoruwa, Lead Strategist at Gatefield, highlighted that discussions were led by global health leaders who underscored the critical role of fiscal health policies in combating NCDs. Emoruwa pointed out the growing obesity epidemic and the burden of care for individuals living with NCDs, as well as the pivotal role of primary healthcare systems in preventing and controlling these diseases. He also stressed the importance of addressing environmental factors, such as air quality, that significantly impact public health. “We need to acknowledge the interplay between environmental health and the rising rates of non-communicable diseases,” he stated, advocating for comprehensive strategies that encompass both healthcare and environmental policies.

Building on last year’s success, where a Presidential commitment was made to allocate 10 per cent of the national budget to healthcare, Emoruwa expressed hope that this year’s summit would further rally support to address the silent epidemic of NCDs. He emphasised that effective policy implementation is essential for making meaningful progress in the fight against these diseases.

The summit served as a platform for stakeholders to brainstorm and share innovative solutions to the pressing healthcare challenges facing Nigeria. As discussions unfolded, it became evident that a multi-faceted approach, integrating health, economic, and environmental strategies, is essential for achieving the ambitious goal of Universal Health Coverage by 2030. As the NHIA and its partners continue to forge ahead with their initiatives, there is a palpable sense of optimism surrounding Nigeria’s healthcare landscape. With commitment, collaboration, and innovative solutions, the dream of UHC—where every citizen has access to quality and affordable healthcare—appears increasingly attainable.

By Adekunle Yusuf

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