Over 10 Million Nigerians Accessing Care Through Basic Health Care Provision Fund — FG

• Over 10 million Nigerians benefit from primary health care services funded by the Basic Health Care Provision Fund, according to the Ministry of Health
• Health insurance coverage in Nigeria rose to nearly 20 million, with 2.6 million vulnerable citizens covered under the Basic Health Care Provision Fund

The Federal Ministry of Health has announced that over 10 million Nigerians are currently benefiting from healthcare services provided by primary healthcare facilities funded through the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF).

This update was shared by the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, during the 9th ministerial oversight committee meeting of the BHCPF in Abuja.

Established under Section 11 of the National Health Act, the BHCPF serves as a catalytic funding mechanism to improve access to primary health care. The fund is sourced from an annual grant from the federal government, amounting to at least 1% of the Consolidated Revenue Fund (CRF).

Prof. Pate highlighted the early successes of the Nigeria Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative introduced by the President. He noted, “These are early steps, but we must sustain and build on them in 2025.”

Expanding primary healthcare services funded by the BHCPF underscores the government’s dedication to equitable and accessible healthcare for all Nigerians.

Prof. Pate also urged citizens to monitor the use of resources to ensure that funds allocated to primary healthcare facilities are effectively utilized.

Dr. Kelechi Ohiri, Director-General of the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), reported that health insurance coverage has risen from 16.7 million in 2023 to nearly 20 million, surpassing expectations.

He stated that 2.6 million vulnerable Nigerians are now covered under the BHCPF, which funds their health insurance premiums, ensuring they can access care without financial hardship.

“This milestone reflects the collective efforts of federal, state, and private healthcare systems working together to enhance financial access to healthcare for all Nigerians,” Dr. Ohiri said.

The NHIA has also introduced a program offering emergency care for pregnant women, including cesarean sections, at no cost.

“No woman should die giving life because she cannot afford to pay,” Dr. Ohiri emphasized, underlining the program’s mission to eliminate financial barriers for pregnant women.

The federal government’s initiatives signal a significant step toward achieving universal health coverage and improving the quality of healthcare services in Nigeria.