The National Health Insurance Authority says 19.2 million citizens have enrolled in the health insurance scheme, surpassing its 2024 target.

NHIA director-general Kelechi Ohiri disclosed this in Abuja at a Universal Health Coverage day commemoration roundtable to reflect on Nigeria’s UHC quest, identify challenges, and chart a course of action.

“We are proud to announce that 19.2 million Nigerians have been covered by health insurance. This surpasses our 2024 target and places us within striking distance of achieving 95 per cent of the 2027 presidential target,” he said.

Mr Ohiri said the NHIA had worked tirelessly to implement innovative strategies.

“This includes the expansion of the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund and partnerships with state health insurance agencies to ensure affordable and accessible healthcare for all Nigerians, especially the most vulnerable populations,” Mr Ohiri explained.

According to him, the milestone reflects the federal government’s commitment to delivering quality healthcare as outlined in the National Health Act.

He urged state governments and private sector stakeholders to intensify efforts to sustain the momentum and bridge the remaining gaps in health insurance coverage.

He said the achievement came amid ongoing challenges in Nigeria’s healthcare sector, including funding limitations, infrastructure deficits, and inadequate human resources.

However, the NHIA boss expressed optimism, noting that the agency’s strategic roadmap for 2025–2027 includes scaling up digital enrollment processes and integrating informal sector workers into the insurance scheme.

Muhammad Lawal, Yobe’s health commissioner, said there should be no negotiation for the health of the people, most especially the vulnerable segment of the population.

Bolanle Olusola-Faleye of the USAID LHSS Project said it was a remarkable time to celebrate 2024 UHC Day with the presence of reforms such as the Sector Wide Approach (SWAP).

Ms Olusola-Faleye said SWAp had shown evidence of success in the states through the harmonised Annual Operational Plan, ensuring alignment of priorities.

Public health advocates have lauded the progress, describing it as a significant step toward achieving UHC in Nigeria.

Garfa Alawode, co-convener of the UHC2023 Forum, said it was a commendable accomplishment.

Mr Alawode, however, said there was still more to do to ensure that every Nigerian can access affordable and quality healthcare services.

As Nigeria inches closer to its 2027 health insurance target, Mr Alawode called for sustained political will, increased funding, and effective monitoring.

(NAN)