The Forum of Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) of State Social Health Insurance Agencies (SSHIA) in Nigeria has re-elected Dr. Simeon Onyemaechi as its chairman, reaffirming confidence in his leadership as efforts to achieve Universal Health Coverage (UHC) continue nationwide.
Dr. Onyemaechi, who is also the Managing Director of the Anambra State Health Insurance Agency (ASHIA), has been recognized for spearheading innovative health insurance models, including the widely acclaimed “Adoption Model” that encourages well-meaning individuals to sponsor health insurance premiums for indigent citizens.
At the forum’s latest strategic meeting, health insurance leaders from across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory deliberated on practical steps to deepen enrollment and expand access, especially among vulnerable populations.
Key resolutions from the meeting include strengthening collaboration with private healthcare providers, improving data management systems, enhancing citizen engagement, and developing tailored strategies for enrollment growth and sustainability.
Dr. Onyemaechi emphasized the importance of collective responsibility and government backing, stating that, “Achieving universal health coverage is not only a health imperative but also a socio-economic necessity. We must work together to leave no one behind.”
The forum also reiterated its commitment to supporting the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) in implementing the health insurance mandate across Nigeria, in line with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda for the health sector.
