Urgent Call for Health Insurance in Nigeria by PSN Chairman

Uchenna Apakama, the Chairman of the Board of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN), addressed participants at the mid-year meeting in Lagos, advocating for the importance of health insurance in Nigeria. He raised concerns about the low health insurance coverage, which currently stands at only 5.8% of the population.

Apakama emphasized that Nigerians should insure their lives, not just their properties, to safeguard against unforeseen circumstances. He noted that many families are forced to finance healthcare out of pocket, leading to financial stress and potential ruin when illness strikes.

Apakama called for a collective effort from labor unions, professional associations, and community groups to embrace group health insurance enrollment, which would help expand coverage across the country. He described comprehensive health insurance as a fundamental pillar for national development and social protection, urging the National Assembly to consider interventions to sponsor health insurance premiums for vulnerable Nigerians.