President Tinubu directs Nationwide enforcement of mandatory health insurance across federal agencies

President Bola Tinubu has instructed the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) to issue a comprehensive directive requiring all Ministries, Extra-Ministerial Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to implement compulsory health insurance coverage in accordance with the National Health Insurance Act, 2022.

The presidential order, announced through spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, mandates that every federal government entity must register its workers under the National Health Insurance Authority’s (NHIA) scheme. Agencies may, if preferred, supplement this coverage with private insurance options, consistent with the existing legislation’s provisions.

The circular introduces stringent conditions, beyond personnel enrollment, for public procurement, necessitating that all bidding organizations furnish a valid Health Insurance Certificate issued by NHIA. This measure effectively ties eligibility for government contracts to prove compliance with health insurance requirements, strengthening adherence and accountability.

Applicants seeking government-issued licenses, permits, or other official sanctions will be required to submit similar proof of insurance validity, ensuring that both individuals and companies align with the law’s mandates.  The NHIA promises to develop a digital portal enabling real-time verification of Health Insurance Certificates, promoting transparency and ease of access.

Additionally, MDAs are tasked with establishing internal control procedures in collaboration with the NHIA to authenticate submitted certificates and maintain regular monitoring routines. This collaboration aims to close loopholes, reduce non-compliance, and ultimately extend health coverage more effectively across Nigeria’s workforce.

Despite the Act’s enactment three years ago, national insurance participation remains low, stressing the need for robust implementation measures.