Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Ultimate Health HMO, Lekan Ewenla, has urged the Federal Government to enforce stricter compliance with the National Health Insurance law to increase the enrolment of Nigerians in the scheme.
Speaking at the one-year memorial service for his late wife, Mrs. Rashidat Ewenla, Lekan Ewenla emphasised the need for the government to play a more proactive role in ensuring that both employers and individuals adhere to existing health insurance policies.
Ewenla argued that without a more robust enforcement strategy targeting the informal sector, the goal of universal health coverage in Nigeria may remain out of reach.
He highlighted the challenges facing the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), pointing to the low participation rate as a significant barrier to its success.
Additionally, he attributed this issue to a lack of enforcement and awareness, stressing that the government must do more to drive compliance with the law.
“The first law that was passed for the introduction of health insurance in this country was for the formal sector. The Federal government started the scheme, and the states are just gradually coming on board to comply with that law,” Ewenla explained.
He added that the Federal Government’s efforts to unpack and enforce the law are commendable but insufficient without an operational framework to ensure widespread compliance.
Ewenla expressed concern that Nigerians often disregard laws, which hampers efforts to expand health insurance coverage.
“Unfortunately, Nigerians don’t respect our laws. So, if there is no operational framework that will drive compliance, we are just wasting our time,” he warned.
The memorial service for Mrs. Rashidat Ewenla was filled with emotional tributes and reflections from family and friends.
Ewenla described his late wife as a philanthropist known for her kindness and dedication to God and humanity.
Also speaking, the son of the deceased, Mr. Kunle Ewenla said the event was held to bring people together to share their thoughts and prayers with the family.
“My mother was a good woman with a big heart, she loved everyone she ever met and was able impact people around her positively”, he said.
