Nigeria's NHIA Reviews N235bn Health Fund Amid High Costs

The Federal Government of Nigeria is reviewing the effectiveness of its N235bn health financing initiative as high out-of-pocket medical expenses continue to burden households. The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) disclosed that this funding was released through the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund over three years.

Although health insurance enrollment has surpassed 23 million, many families still face significant financial strain due to medical bills. In response, the NHIA is hosting the inaugural Nigeria Health Financing Research & Learning Forum on September 28, aimed at improving healthcare resource allocation.

This two-day forum will gather policymakers, researchers, and healthcare professionals to discuss how to enhance health financing outcomes. The initiative is part of a broader health reform program coordinated by Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, focusing on expanding access, financial protection, and improving patient outcomes.

The forum will also explore the application of Health Technology Assessment in determining the cost-effectiveness of health interventions.