6. Health Inequality

Health Inequality: There are significant health disparities between urban and rural areas, and also between different socio-economic groups. While urban centers may have better access to health facilities, rural populations often face difficulties in accessing even the most basic health services.

Dependency on Out-of-Pocket Payments: Despite the introduction of the NHIS, many Nigerians still pay out-of-pocket for healthcare services. This creates a barrier to access for the poor and limits the effectiveness of health insurance coverage.

Limited Focus on Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs): Nigeria is experiencing a rising burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer, but the healthcare system is still largely focused on infectious diseases. Efforts to address the growing NCD burden need more focus and resources.

Poor Sanitation and Environmental Health: Environmental health remains a significant concern, particularly in urban slums and rural areas where poor sanitation, unsafe water, and pollution contribute to the spread of diseases like cholera, malaria, and diarrheal diseases.