To attain Universal Health Coverage (UHC) in Nigeria by 2030.
A leading agency committed to achieving financial access to quality health care for all Nigerians.
To mobilize and pool financial resources for strategic purchasing of affordable and quality health care for all Nigerians.
Commitment, Responsiveness, Efficiency, Accountability, Transparency, Equity.
The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) has a rich history rooted in the vision of providing accessible, affordable, and high-quality health care for all Nigerians. It began as the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), established by Decree 35 of 1999 (now Act 35). Operating as a Public Private Partnership, the NHIS was tasked with the crucial mission of ensuring health care coverage for the entire populace.
Milestones of Transition May 24th, 2022: Official Gazetting as NHIA On this historic date, the Federal Government of Nigeria formally gazetted the NHIS as the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA). This transition marked a significant step forward in the evolution of health care provision in Nigeria.
May 19th, 2022: Enactment of the NHIA Act: The National Assembly of the Federal Republic of Nigeria enacted the NHIA Act, providing a legal framework for the newly
established Authority. This Act outlined the objectives, functions, and powers
of the NHIA, solidifying its role in the nation’s healthcare landscape.
Key Provisions and Objectives: Establishment and Legal Status The NHIA was established as a body corporate with perpetual succession, possessing an official seal. It gained the authority to sue and be sued in its corporate name, acquire or dispose of property, and enter into contracts to fulfill its functions.
OBJECTIVES OF THE AUTHORITY
1. Promote, Regulate and Integrate Health Insurance Schemes: The NHIA aims to promote, regulate, and integrate various health insurance schemes operating in Nigeria, ensuring a cohesive and effective health care financing system. Improve Private Sector Participation: It seeks to enhance private system.
2. Improve Private Sector Participation: It seeks to enhance private sector involvement in health care service provision, fostering innovation and efficiency in the sector. Achieve Universal Health Coverage (UHC): One of the core objectives is to work towards achieving Universal Health Coverage for all Nigerians, ensuring that health care services are accessible and affordable across the board.
FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
1. Promote, Integrate, and Regulate Health Insurance Schemes: The NHIA oversees and regulates all health insurance schemes in Nigeria, working towards a unified and comprehensive health care financing framework.
2. Mandatory Health Insurance: It enforces the mandatory nature of health insurance for every Nigerian and legal resident, emphasizing the importance of universal coverage.
3. Standardization of Health Services: The NHIA sets standards for the basic minimum package of health services across all insurance schemes, ensuring consistent quality of care for all beneficiaries.
4. Collaboration with Other Organizations: The Authority collaborates with various organizations to promote its objectives, fostering partnerships that enhance the effectiveness and reach of healthcare initiatives.
The transition from NHIS to NHIA represents a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s healthcare journey, signaling a commitment to advancing health care access, quality, and affordability for all citizens. The NHIA continues to evolve, innovate, and collaborate to achieve its mandate of Universal Health Coverage and improved healthcare outcomes nationwide.
