Nigeria's N235bn Health Fund Under Review Amid High Costs

The federal government of Nigeria is intensifying its assessment of health financing interventions due to the high out-of-pocket medical expenses burdening households. The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) revealed that it has released N235 billion through the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund over the past three years.

Despite an increase in health insurance coverage to over 23 million enrollees, many Nigerians still face significant medical expenses. The Nigeria Health Financing Research & Learning Forum, scheduled for September 28, will gather policymakers, researchers, and healthcare professionals to discuss efficient resource utilization for improved healthcare outcomes.

The forum is part of broader health sector reforms coordinated by the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare under Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, focusing on expanding healthcare access, enhancing financial protection, and ensuring better value from health investments. The forum will also explore translating research findings into practical healthcare financing decisions.