The Federal Government will in September, roll out a bold policy drive to overhaul how healthcare is funded in Nigeria.

The four-day National Policy Dialogue on Healthcare Financing, billed for September 1–4 in Abuja, will bring together government leaders, global partners, and the private sector to hammer out a sustainable plan that ensures Nigerians can access quality care without falling into financial ruin.

Health Minister Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate said the reforms mark “Nigeria’s next chapter” in health transformation, anchored on the National Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative and a new strategic financing framework.

“At the heart of this phase is a simple but urgent mission: to save lives, reduce both physical and financial suffering, and deliver health for all Nigerians, without leaving anyone behind,” Pate said.

The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) is also expected to unveil measures to expand insurance coverage and strengthen protection for citizens against out-of-pocket expenses, which remain among the highest in Africa.

The policy dialogue will review Nigeria’s State of Health Financing Report, and set a new financing playbook aligned with the African Union’s 2019 Addis Declaration, where Nigeria and other member states pledged to ramp up domestic spending on health.

With over 70% of healthcare costs still paid directly from Nigerians’ pockets, the dialogue could mark a turning point if political commitments translate into real budgetary action.