Tinubu orders MDAs to enforce mandatory Health Insurance under NHIA Act

President Bola Tinubu has instructed the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) to issue a service-wide circular mandating all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to implement compulsory health insurance in accordance with the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) Act, 2022.

This was disclosed in a statement released on Wednesday by presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga. The President reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to achieving universal health coverage and called for closer engagement with the private sector to ensure that compliance with the law does not impose unnecessary burdens on businesses.

The directive requires all MDAs to enrol their employees in the NHIA health insurance scheme, with the option for supplementary private coverage. Contractors and entities participating in public procurement will now have to present valid NHIA Health Insurance Certificates to qualify for government contracts, while proof of compliance will also be necessary for the issuance and renewal of licenses, permits, and other approvals.

To enhance enforcement, the NHIA has been directed to establish a digital verification platform for Health Insurance Certificates, ensuring transparency and easy authentication. MDAs are expected to work closely with the NHIA to develop internal procedures for certificate verification and compliance monitoring.

The Presidency stated that this move is intended to expand health coverage, protect workers, reduce out-of-pocket medical costs, and promote accountability in both the public and private sectors.

Although the NHIA Act was enacted three years ago, Nigeria’s health insurance coverage remains low. The President’s directive signals a renewed push to accelerate progress and establish a sustainable healthcare financing system for all Nigerians.