The Nigerian government has introduced the operational guidelines for the 2022 National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) Act, aiming to enhance access to affordable healthcare services for all citizens.
During the ceremony held in Abuja, the Director General of NHIA, Prof. Muhammad Sambo, emphasized the guidelines’ significance in clarifying roles, responsibilities, and obligations within the healthcare sector. The guidelines are anticipated to facilitate the successful implementation of health insurance across Nigeria.
“The NHIA Act of 2022 lays the foundation for a transformative healthcare system in Nigeria that genuinely aspires to leave no one behind,” Prof. Sambo stated. He stressed the importance of ensuring that Nigerians do not have to choose between their health and financial well-being.
The NHIA boss further explained that the guidelines outline the roles and responsibilities of stakeholders within the health insurance ecosystem, specify the Basic Minimum Package of Health Services for all Nigerians, and detail how healthcare schemes will strategically acquire these services nationwide. Additionally, the guidelines establish standards for accrediting critical stakeholders and specify penalties for any infractions.
Prof. Sambo also acknowledged the integration of the State Social Health Insurance Agencies (SSHIAs) within the Health Insurance Under One Roof (HIUOR) coordination framework.
“These guidelines are the roadmap to the better, healthier future we collectively envision for ourselves as a country,” he affirmed, emphasizing the principle of equity as a cornerstone.
Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Pate, highlighted the importance of affordable, quality healthcare for achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
He noted that the NHIA Act 2022 has operationalized these guidelines to guide the government in expanding healthcare affordability, particularly for the most vulnerable Nigerians.
Prof. Pate emphasized the consultative development of the operational guidelines through stakeholder engagement and called on state governments to play an active role in implementation at the sub-national level.
“As we implement on the basis of these guidelines, we should see that more Nigerians are covered over time to meet the goals that have been set by Mr. President for his administration,” he stated, emphasizing the reduction of healthcare costs as a collective goal.