National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) was established to provide easy access to healthcare for
all Nigerians at an affordable cost through various prepayment mechanisms. It became operational in
the year 2005 with a presidential mandate to achieve Universal Health Coverage (UHC). However, as
at today the NHIS covers less than 10% of the Nigerian population leaving the most vulnerable
population at the mercy of healthcare services that are not affordable, this for me, is totally
unacceptable.
Upon my appointment as the Executive Secretary of the NHIS, I was given the presidential directive
to develop a comprehensive 10-year strategic plan for the organization. The importance of this plan
cannot be over emphasized, as it will articulate the vision, mission, as well as the strategic direction of
the NHIS for the next 10 years.
This Strategic Plan is an important document in the revitalization and expansion of health insurance in
Nigeria. It was developed in line with my 3-point agenda of value reorientation, engendering
transparency and accountability in all the operations of the NHIS as well as accelerating the drive
towards UHC.
I believe, this document will guide policy formulation, utilization, and health insurance
implementation in Nigeria. It will serve as an exceptionally good tool in serving as a milestone for
measuring the progress of my intended reforms in the Scheme.
I therefore, urge every stakeholder in the health sector in Nigeria to utilize this document in improving
health care delivery in Nigeria.
Prof. Mohammed Nasir Sambo
Executive Secretary/CEO