Chukwu Obinna 
Human Rights Lawyer, Femi Falana
ABUJA, Nigeria – Human rights lawyer Femi Falana (SAN) says every Nigerian is now legally entitled to compulsory health insurance under the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) Act of 2022.
Falana explained in a statement on Friday that the Act replaced the 2004 National Health Insurance Scheme, which failed to provide broad coverage. He described the new law as “a major step towards making universal health coverage a legal reality in Nigeria.”
The Act requires all citizens to have access to a Basic Minimum Package of Care. It also creates a Vulnerable Group Fund to pay for services for the poor, the elderly, children under five, and people with disabilities.
According to Falana, President Bola Tinubu has already directed all ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs) to enrol their workers in the NHIA scheme. From September 3, 2025, government offices must also show a valid NHIA Health Insurance Certificate before taking part in public procurement.
“The Secretary to the Government of the Federation has the power to enforce this directive. This could greatly expand coverage in public institutions,” Falana said.
He stressed that state governments must run their own health insurance schemes or use licensed third-party managers until they set up independent systems.
Citing the law, Falana noted that health insurance for vulnerable groups will be fully funded by the government, while employees must contribute on a contributory basis.
Despite the law, he lamented that over 90 per cent of Nigerians remain uninsured. He blamed widespread poverty for preventing citizens from enrolling in health schemes.
Falana urged federal, state, and local governments to increase funding, saying the Nigerian Constitution and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights guarantee citizens the right to quality healthcare.
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