Tinubu orders mandatory health insurance implementation across MDAs
President Bola Tinubu has directed the full implementation of mandatory health insurance across all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies, MDAs, in line with the National Health Insurance Act, 2022.
The President ordered the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, SGF, to issue a service-wide circular mandating compliance with the Act, while also urging closer engagement with the private sector to ensure businesses are not unduly burdened.
According to a statement issued on Wednesday by Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the directive covers five key areas, including the compulsory enrolment of all MDA employees in the National Health Insurance Authority, NHIA, plan.
Agencies are, however, allowed to take up supplementary private insurance coverage.
The President also directed that all entities participating in public procurement must present a valid NHIA-issued Health Insurance Certificate as part of their eligibility requirements.
Similarly, applicants for licenses, permits, and other official approvals must show proof of compliance before being considered.
To ensure transparency, the NHIA will establish a digital verification platform for certificates, while MDAs are expected to develop internal procedures to authenticate submitted documents and monitor compliance.
The Presidency said the directive is aimed at expanding health coverage, safeguarding workers, reducing out-of-pocket expenses, and promoting accountability in both public and private sector operations.
The NHIA Act, enacted in 2022, makes health insurance compulsory for Nigerians. However, nearly three years after its passage, coverage remains low despite recent improvements in the health sector.
Tinubu orders mandatory health insurance implementation across MDAs
