Nigeria: International Health & Medical Insurance Guide

At-a-glance: life & healthcare in Nigeria

Nigeria blends fast-growing cities (Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt) with a two-tier health system. Most foreigners rely on international private medical insurance for access to private hospitals, English-speaking specialists, faster treatment and medical evacuation if needed.

• Private facilities are the expat norm; check direct-billing networks
• Key health topics: malaria prevention, food/water hygiene, routine vaccines
• Security varies by region—follow employer/consular guidance

Visa & health insurance expectations

Work sponsors and schools commonly expect proof of adequate health insurance. For trips, carry travel medical insurance with evacuation. For longer stays, choose an international plan that guarantees private-hospital access in Nigeria and travel portability.

Always confirm the latest rules with your consulate/employer and Nigeria Immigration Service for your visa type.

How healthcare works in Nigeria

The public sector faces funding and staffing constraints; private hospitals offer faster access and more consistent standards. With international insurance, you’ll use network providers for cashless treatment, and have options for stabilization and medical evacuation if required.

• Carry your insurer card and assistance numbers at all times
• Use in-network facilities where possible for direct billing
• For up-country travel, plan for pharmacy refills and power/Connectivity backups

Selected private hospitals (by city)

• Lagos: Lagoon Hospitals; Reddington Hospital; Eko Hospitals
• Abuja: Nizamiye Hospital; Cedarcrest Hospital
• Port Harcourt: Rivers State University Teaching Hospital (private wings), specialist clinics

Ask us which facilities are in your insurer’s cashless network near home/work.

Common health considerations

• Malaria prevention (repellent, clothing, bed nets; consider prophylaxis)
• Food & water hygiene; carry oral rehydration salts for gastro illness
• Routine & travel vaccines per a travel clinic (e.g., yellow fever as indicated)

Everyday safety

• Use vetted drivers/ride-hailing; avoid night travel between cities
• Keep valuables discreet; vary routines where advised by your employer
• Know local emergency contacts—112 (many states); Lagos also 767

Coverage checklist

• Direct-billing hospitals near home/office
• Evacuation & repatriation (regional hub or home country)
• Outpatient, prescriptions, and optional dental/maternity

Group plans for companies & NGOs

Tailored group cover for organizations—including oil & gas, infrastructure and NGOs—with options for medical evacuation, dependants’ cover and wellness add-ons. In higher-risk contexts, employers often add kidnap & ransom (K&R) and duty-of-care services alongside medical insurance.

Group solutions overview

International schools & teachers

Packages can include outpatient, mental health and EAP support, with cashless access at private clinics in Lagos/Abuja and evacuation to regional centers when clinically required.

Discuss a school plan