NHIA Collaborates with States and Employers on Health Insurance Enforcement

Strengthening Health Insurance Enforcement and Awareness in Nigeria

The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) has taken significant steps to ensure the full implementation of mandatory health insurance policies across Nigeria. Dr. Kelechi Ohiri, the Director General of NHIA, highlighted that discussions with state governments and private sector employers have already begun to enforce compliance with the new regulations.

Prior to the amendment of the NHIA Act two years ago, participation in health insurance was voluntary, leading to low coverage rates, especially in the private sector. This lack of participation contributed to gaps in healthcare access and financial strain for many Nigerians. Now, with the law mandating health insurance, enforcement has become a top priority for the authority.

Ohiri emphasized the importance of making health insurance compulsory and ensuring that this mandate is effectively enforced. He mentioned that the NHIA is working closely with the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation and several state governments, including Lagos, to create frameworks that will support widespread compliance.

Building Trust and Awareness

Beyond enforcement, the NHIA is also focused on raising awareness among Nigerians about the benefits of health insurance. Many people still fail to recognize the value of insurance until they face unexpected medical expenses, which can lead to severe financial difficulties.

“Prepaying for health insurance is more cost-effective than waiting until you are sick and then paying hospital bills,” Ohiri stated. He stressed that understanding the long-term benefits of insurance is essential for encouraging enrollment.

Another key strategy is building public trust in the health insurance system. The recent upward review of provider tariffs was aimed at improving the quality of care and reducing complaints. By increasing capitation and fee-for-service payments, the NHIA aims to ensure that enrollees receive value for their contributions.

When patients receive proper care, it enhances confidence in the insurance system. This approach not only improves service delivery but also encourages more people to enroll in health insurance schemes.

Engaging Employers and Individuals

To address low enrollment among private sector workers, the NHIA has started engaging with employer bodies such as the Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association and other business groups. Ohiri explained that the authority is not solely relying on enforcement but is actively promoting voluntary compliance through advocacy.

“We are also making it easier for individuals, small businesses, and groups to sign up for insurance. If you’re a trader or mechanic, you can register through your association. If you’re a student, we’re working with schools to integrate health insurance into student programs,” he said.

This initiative ensures that even those in informal sectors or smaller communities can access health insurance. Whether an individual is a mechanic, student, or trader, the NHIA is creating structures and platforms to make coverage accessible to all.

A Multi-Pronged Approach

The NHIA is adopting a multi-pronged approach that includes regulation, advocacy, partnerships, and system design to build a more inclusive and sustainable health insurance system in Nigeria. Public sensitization remains a crucial component of this strategy, with the DG urging the media and stakeholders to support awareness efforts.

Making Nigerians understand that health insurance is a more cost-effective and sustainable way to access healthcare is vital. The NHIA is committed to simplifying the process for everyone—individuals, families, and small and medium enterprises (SMEs)—to sign up for coverage.

Growth in Health Insurance Coverage

Despite challenges over the past two decades, Nigeria has made remarkable progress in expanding health insurance coverage. According to Ohiri, when the current leadership assumed office in 2023, approximately 16.7 million Nigerians were covered under health insurance. This number has since increased to 19.4 million, representing a growth of nearly three million people within a year.

This surge in enrollment is attributed to strategic partnerships with state governments and aggressive public awareness campaigns. Ohiri emphasized that awareness has been a key factor in helping Nigerians recognize the importance of health insurance.

By combining enforcement, awareness, and accessibility, the NHIA is working towards a future where every Nigerian has access to affordable and reliable healthcare. The ongoing efforts reflect a commitment to building a stronger, more inclusive health insurance system for the country.