The Federal Government has tasked the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) with developing systems and guidelines for the full implementation of mandatory health insurance, in line with the National Health Insurance Act, 2022.
Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Mohammed Pate, said the move signals government’s resolve to make health coverage universal. Speaking at the closing of the National Health Financing Dialogue in Abuja on Thursday, Pate—represented by Permanent Secretary Daju Kachollom—said the ministry will lead the process to ensure compliance.
He disclosed that President Bola Tinubu had already directed the Secretary to the Government of the Federation to issue a service-wide circular making health insurance compulsory for all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs).
“The directive is in line with the provisions of the National Health Insurance Authority Act, 2022. Mandatory health insurance is here to stay,” Pate said, stressing that even vendors working with the health ministry, its agencies, and supervised institutions will be required to comply.
The minister described the dialogue as a launchpad for coordinated action to reposition health financing as a sovereign and economic priority.
The four-day forum, organised by NHIA and partners, brought together government officials, development experts, insurers, civil society, and private sector players. Discussions focused on strengthening evidence and data systems to secure sustained financing, while translating policy commitments into practical strategies.
The initiative aims to expand coverage, reduce out-of-pocket spending, and set Nigeria on a path to more sustainable healthcare financing.
