The Federal Government has unveiled plans to integrate Nigeria’s Digital Identification Number (NIN) into the country’s healthcare system as part of efforts to accelerate the achievement of Universal Health Coverage (UHC) by 2030.
The initiative is aimed at creating a more efficient and inclusive healthcare system by enabling citizens to access medical services through a secure digital identity. Officials say the integration will improve patient identification, strengthen health records management, reduce fraud and enhance the delivery of healthcare services nationwide.
The government said linking digital identity with healthcare will also support better planning and resource allocation by providing accurate data on healthcare users, while ensuring continuity of care across different health facilities.
Speaking on the initiative, government officials noted that the move aligns with Nigeria’s broader digital transformation agenda and is expected to improve coordination among healthcare providers, health insurance schemes and regulatory agencies.
The integration is also expected to strengthen the implementation of the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) programmes by simplifying enrolment, improving beneficiary verification and expanding access to healthcare services, particularly for vulnerable populations.
Officials said the Digital ID initiative would play a critical role in ensuring that every Nigerian has a unique and verifiable identity, making it easier to track healthcare delivery, monitor public health interventions and respond more effectively to disease outbreaks and emergencies.
The Federal Government reaffirmed its commitment to achieving Universal Health Coverage by 2030, in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, which seek to ensure that all people have access to quality essential health services without suffering financial hardship.
Health experts have welcomed the initiative, saying a unified digital identity system could help eliminate duplicate records, improve the accuracy of patient information and support data-driven decision-making across the health sector. However, they also stressed the importance of safeguarding personal data, strengthening cybersecurity measures and ensuring equitable access to digital services, especially in rural communities.
The government said implementation will involve collaboration among key institutions, including the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, state governments and development partners.
Authorities expressed confidence that integrating digital identity into healthcare will enhance service delivery, improve accountability and bring Nigeria closer to achieving affordable, accessible and equitable healthcare for all citizens by the end of the decade.
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