National Health Policy

What Is This Policy?

Sets the strategic direction for Nigeria's health system, defining priorities, guiding resource allocation, and establishing frameworks for achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) by 2030.

Who Does It Target?

Federal, state, and local government health authorities Primary health care facilities and workers Vulnerable populations (mothers, children, elderly, rural communities) Private health sector providers

What Does It Aim to Achieve?

Achieve Universal Health Coverage (UHC) by 2030 Strengthen primary health care as the foundation of the health system Reduce maternal and child mortality rates Tackle both communicable and non-communicable disease burdens

Key Features

UHC Commitment: Commits Nigeria to expanding health insurance coverage to all citizens. PHC Revitalisation: Prioritises rehabilitation and staffing of primary health care centres across Nigeria. Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF): 1% of Consolidated Revenue Fund dedicated to basic health services under the NHA.

Current Status

The National Health Policy is active and being implemented, as it guides resource allocation and frameworks for achieving UHC by 2030.

Legal Framework

The National Health Policy operates under the National Health Act 2014, which is the primary legislation for health sector governance in Nigeria. It aligns with the 1999 Constitution (Section 17 — health rights), the National Health Insurance Authority Act 2022, and the Basic Health Care Provision Fund. Nigeria's commitments under the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 3), the Abuja Declaration, and the Maputo Plan of Action provide the international framework.