The federal government has intensified its efforts to improve health outcomes for vulnerable populations in Nigeria, particularly women affected by obstetric fistula.
As part of these initiatives, the government has unveiled plans to expand health insurance coverage for women suffering from the condition.
Additionally, it aims to increase the number of treatment centers beyond the current 18 and explore other governmental mechanisms to comprehensively address the issue.
During a Steering Committee meeting of the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) Fistula-Free Programme in Abuja, Coordinating Minister of Health, Prof. Ali Pate, emphasized the government’s commitment to tackling obstetric fistula.
He highlighted the existence of the National Obstetrics Fistula Centre, which provides comprehensive care for patients, including non-Nigerians.
The government also announced plans to boost the number of specialists treating obstetric fistula.
Currently, 15 experts are undergoing training through the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) across various levels of expertise required for fistula treatment.
Prof. Pate acknowledged the program’s achievements within a short period, noting its success in overcoming skepticism about government-led health initiatives.
He assured continued collaboration with State Governors, the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs, the National Directorate of Employment (NDE), and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) to ensure the program’s sustainability.
In his presentation, NHIA Director General Kelechi Ohiri revealed that ₦513.6 million had been spent on treating 1,629 women with fistula emergencies since the program’s launch six months ago.
The costs were fully covered under NHIA’s Fistula-Free Programme, which addresses both clinical and non-clinical needs, including feeding, transportation, and post-care follow-ups.
Ohiri explained that 1,898 claims have been submitted so far, with 1,629 already verified and paid for.
He emphasized the program’s holistic approach, which not only provides treatment but also ensures beneficiaries are enrolled in health insurance for sustained access to care.
Currently, 18 facilities across Nigeria are treating the condition, while NHIA has partnered with 42 facilities nationwide.
Plans are underway to extend coverage to all tertiary and selected secondary healthcare facilities.
Ohiri also discussed the Seamless Obstetric Emergency Management Program (SeaMaC), which addresses obstetric emergencies to prevent care denial due to financial constraints. Since its inception, 2,819 women have been treated under SeaMaC, with 899 claims processed.
Looking forward, NHIA plans to expand both the Fistula-Free Programme and the SeaMaC initiative to more healthcare facilities, strengthen stakeholder partnerships, and intensify awareness campaigns.
These efforts aim to improve maternal and child health outcomes across Nigeria and address the social and economic challenges faced by beneficiaries, ensuring their full reintegration into society.
