The National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) saw its highest annual enrolment in 2024, with 2.4 million Nigerians joining the program. This brings the total number of Nigerians covered under the scheme to 19.6 million, according to the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate.
Prof. Pate highlighted this milestone as evidence of the Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration’s commitment to achieving universal healthcare access across Nigeria. Speaking after chairing a Ministerial Oversight Committee meeting on the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund (BHCPF) in Abuja, the minister praised the coordinated efforts of health sector leaders in driving enrolment.
The minister’s announcement underscores the government’s strategy to expand access to affordable healthcare through the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA). The initiative aligns with broader reforms aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s healthcare system and addressing gaps in coverage.
Stakeholders in the healthcare sector have applauded the growth in NHIS enrolment, viewing it as a step toward achieving Sustainable Development Goal 3, which emphasizes health and well-being for all. Despite these gains, experts urge the government to address persistent challenges, such as equitable distribution of healthcare services and funding.
