President Bola Tinubu has directed the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) to issue a service-wide circular compelling all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to implement mandatory health insurance in line with the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) Act, 2022.
This is contained in a statement issued by presidential spokesman, Bayo Onanuga on Wednesday.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to universal health coverage, the President also urged closer collaboration with the private sector to ensure that compliance with the Act does not place undue burdens on businesses.
Under the directive, all MDAs are required to enrol their employees in the NHIA health insurance scheme, with the option of additional private cover where desired.
The statement said contractors and entities involved in public procurement must present valid NHIA Health Insurance Certificates as part of eligibility documentation, while applicants for licenses, permits, and other official approvals will also be required to show proof of compliance.
To strengthen enforcement, the NHIA will establish a digital verification system for Health Insurance Certificates, ensuring transparency and ease of authentication. MDAs are equally expected to develop internal procedures in collaboration with the NHIA to verify certificates and ensure consistent monitoring.
According to the Presidency, the directive is aimed at expanding health coverage, protecting workers, reducing out-of-pocket medical costs, and embedding accountability across public and private sector engagements.
Despite the NHIA Act being passed three years ago, health insurance coverage in Nigeria remains alarmingly low.
The President’s order marks a decisive push towards accelerating progress and building a sustainable, inclusive healthcare financing system for all Nigerians.
