The CEOs of State Social Health Insurance Agencies (CEOs of SSHIAs) have re-elected Dr. Simeon Onyemaechi, Managing Director of the Anambra State Health Insurance Agency, as their chairman for another two-year term in a bid to strengthen Nigeria’s drive towards Universal Health Coverage. This decision was made during the forum’s second quarterly review meeting in Lagos.
The Q2 Peer Review Meeting, held at The Sojourner, Ikeja Lagos, brought together all CEOs of State Social Health Insurance Agencies across the 36 states within the Federation and the FCT. Discussions focused on expanding health insurance coverage to citizens and tackling key challenges faced by the agencies.
In his acceptance speech, Dr. Onyemaechi pledged to intensify efforts to boost health insurance coverage nationwide, starting with continued peer learning and the implementation of interstate collaborations. He acknowledged that significant progress has been made in recent years, with enrollment in state health insurance schemes increasing from zero to over 11 million individuals. He said;
“We’ve seen tremendous progress, but to achieve UHC by 2030, every state must engage fully. No one must be left behind”
Highlighting the role of the Forum of CEOs of SSHIAs in helping states share best practices and learning from one another’s experiences, he noted that successful strategies could be replicated while avoiding mistakes. He also added that through inclusive social health insurance and a strong primary healthcare system, Universal Health Coverage is achievable.
Also speaking at the event was Dr. Emmanuella Zamba, the Forum’s Publicity Secretary and the Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Health Management Agency (LASHMA). Dr. Zamba underscored the inclusive nature of state social health insurance, especially for the Informal Sector, SMEs, and Vulnerable Groups, further buttressing the chairman’s earlier point. She said;
“It is about expanding access to those who have previously been left out!”
She explained that the goal of SSHIAs is to make health insurance accessible to those who have traditionally been excluded, ensuring that more Nigerians can receive affordable healthcare without the burden of high out-of-pocket expenses.
The Q2 Peer Review meeting came to a conclusion with the re-election of leaders who have shown exceptional commitment in their previous roles and new leaders who show promise, to lead the forum through 2027.
