NSSF Pushes for Stronger Policies and Funding to Advance Maternal Health Equity Through Insurance

By: Chioma Madonna Ndukwu

Nigeria Solidarity Support Fund (NSSF) reaffirmed its dedication to improving maternal health equity in Nigeria during its 7th Fireside Chat on April 30, 2025, in Abuja.

The event, themed “Breaking Barriers to Maternal Health Equity,” brought together stakeholders to explore how health insurance can bridge gaps in women’s healthcare, especially for underserved communities.

Dr. Fejiro Chinye-Nwoko, NSSF’s CEO, underscored the urgency:

“Nigeria’s maternal mortality rate remains unacceptably high… This cannot continue… That’s what health insurance is meant to do, and it must be inclusive and accessible.”

Expert panelists discussed solutions such as donor collaboration, digitized insurance systems, and national programs offering free emergency care.

Dr. Chinye-Nwoko emphasized that women are “uninformed, unregistered, unempowered, and underserved,” and called for stronger policy action and funding.

A pivotal question raised was: “Who pays for the health of the poor?”, spotlighting the need for sustainable, government-backed financial support for maternal care.

Panelists also stressed the cost-saving value of preventive care—like screenings and contraception—to reduce maternal deaths and long-term costs.

NSSF shared field insights from initiatives in Ekiti State and the WeNaija Impact Cohort, which revealed barriers such as mistrust, cost, and lack of awareness.

The organization plans to compile these findings into policy briefs with actionable steps for stakeholders.

Dr. Chinye-Nwoko concluded with a call to action:

“We have the tools, the data, and the partnerships to change that… What we need now is policy implementation and financial commitment.”