The Federal Government has unveiled operational guidelines for the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) to enhance the recently signed NHIA Act of 2022. The guidelines were launched by the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, in Abuja on Tuesday. This milestone signifies a significant step towards accelerating progress in the country’s health insurance sector.
Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate expressed confidence that the NHIA Act and its operational guidelines will revolutionize health insurance in Nigeria, ensuring that more Nigerians have access to affordable healthcare, especially the most vulnerable population. The guidelines will serve as a roadmap for the country, expanding healthcare coverage and making it more affordable for all.
In his address, Prof. Pate called on all states to enroll their formal sectors and provide the necessary 25% counterpart funding. This collaboration will play a vital role in achieving the overarching goal of the NHIA Act.
The Director General of the NHIA, Prof. Mohammed Sambo, highlighted that the operational guidelines clarify the roles, responsibilities, and obligations of all stakeholders involved in the health insurance system. These guidelines are designed to promote principles of equity, quality, and sustainability.
Alexander Chimbaru, the Nigeria Deputy Country Representative of the World Health Organisation (WHO), commended the new guidelines for addressing the challenges faced by the previous National Health Insurance Scheme. With the implementation of these guidelines, the NHIA aims to overcome these obstacles and ensure a more effective and inclusive health insurance system in Nigeria.
