Stakeholders Demand Review Of Lagos Policy On Mandatory Health Insurance

The Health and Managed Care Association of Nigeria (HMCAN) and the Association of Health Insurance Practitioners of Nigeria (AHIPN) have urged the Lagos State government to review its mandatory health insurance policy slated for full implemention from the 1st, January, 2027.

The stakeholders seeking review include the chairman, Health and Managed Care Association of Nigeria (HMCAN), Dr Abdulkadri Osumah and the chairman, Association of Health Insurance Practitioners of Nigeria (AHIPN), Dr Ben Okpalla.

They specifically clarified in a joint statement that they have not endorsed the Lagos Private Health Plan (LPHP) under its current framework.

According to them, attendance at the launch, consultations or expressions of interest by individual HMOs do not constitute HMCAN’s and AHIPN endorsement.

“HMO accreditation is also distinct from approval of a specific health plan. We request correction of reports suggesting collective industry endorsement.

“HMCAN and AHIPN its members fully support the Presidential directive on universal health coverage and the objectives of the Lagos State Executive Order to give effect to the NHIA Act 2022. We commend Governor Babajide Sanwo-

Olu’s commitment to expanding coverage. Implementation must be lawful, affordable and coordinated.

“The NHIA-Lagos communiqué of 28-29 October 2025 provides the agreed foundation: NHIA remains the sole statutory regulator; LPHP participation by HMOs is voluntary; employers retain the right to choose NHIA-approved plans; and all plans require prior NHIA approval.

“The communiqué also provides for NHIA-issued, nationally recognised compliance certificates, with State collaboration. Lagos may issue certificates on NHIA’s behalf bearing both logos. NHIA and Lagos State, through LASHMA and relevant authorities, should therefore coordinate compliance and enforcement within their respective mandates. We request publication of the applicable NHIA approval documentation.

“Our understanding is that the framework includes an aggregate 13% levy (Tax) on private-sector health insurance arrangements. Its legal basis, calculation base and components require clarification. If imposed in addition to existing premiums and statutory obligations, HMCAN and AHIPN considers it an unnecessary burden and a form of double taxation on employers already funding healthcare. Additional charges must not erode affordability or funds available for patient care.

“Clear compliance criteria have yet to be communicated to our satisfaction. Employers need published guidance on acceptable coverage, minimum benefits, certification and sanctions, aligned with the Presidential directive. Existing NHIA-approved coverage must be recognised without duplicate enrolment or payment.

“The December 31, 2026, deadline should be reviewed against the availability of complete guidelines and functional compliance systems. Employers must receive adequate notice and a realistic transition period before sanctions commence,” they stated.

The HMCAN and AHIPN members said they are ready to work with Lagos State government, LASHMA, NHIA, the Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA), providers, labour and other stakeholders on an agreed compliance roadmap.

They called for an urgent stakeholder meeting to resolve outstanding issues and agree phased implementation.