List of HMO Companies Approved by NHIS (Now NHIA) in Nigeria: What You Need to Know Before Choosing One

Choosing a Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) in Nigeria isn’t as simple as picking the cheapest or most popular name. What many people don’t realize is that not all HMOs operate legally, and not all of them are approved by the government. That’s where the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA)—formerly known as NHIS—steps in. If you’re planning to subscribe to health insurance or switch providers, you’ll want to know which HMOs are officially accredited and recognized by the NHIA.

This article reveals the list of approved HMOs in Nigeria, how to verify them, and what to look out for before trusting your healthcare and money to any provider.

Where to Find the Official List of Approved HMOs

The most reliable source for the updated list of licensed HMOs is the NHIA official website: www.nhia.gov.ng. You can navigate to the “Accredited HMOs” section, where you’ll find a full list that includes:

• Company name
• State headquarters
• Contact address
• Approval status (Active, Suspended, or Under Review)

The list is publicly available and is regularly updated by NHIA to reflect ongoing audits and regulatory actions. This helps you stay informed and avoid choosing a provider that has already lost its license.

Sample List of NHIA-Approved HMO Companies in Nigeria

While the NHIA list contains over 60 approved HMOs across the country, here are some of the most popular and widely used ones as of the most recent update:

1. Hygeia HMO Ltd – Lagos
   One of the most reputable names in Nigeria’s health insurance space, known for their wide hospital network and corporate plans.
2. Avon HMO – Lagos
   Offers flexible plans for individuals, families, and small businesses. Known for a user-friendly app and customer support.
3. AXA Mansard HMO – Lagos
   A subsidiary of AXA Mansard Insurance, with a strong focus on digital health tools and accessible wellness programs.
4. Total Health Trust Ltd – Lagos
   A member of the Liberty Health Group. Serves both local and international clients with a wide network of hospitals.
5. Integrated Healthcare Ltd – Abuja
   Very active in NHIA public schemes and provides cover in underserved northern regions.
6. Green Bay HMO Ltd – Abuja
   Popular among federal workers and civil service schemes. Strong presence in NHIA formal sector programs.
7. Reliance HMO – Lagos
   Known for its AI-powered health support, mobile app, and monthly flexible plans.
8. Mediplan HMO – Lagos
   Provides services to individuals, families, and large businesses. Has been in operation for several years with solid hospital partnerships.
9. Clearline International Ltd – Lagos
   A top-tier provider with a focus on both local and foreign expatriate care plans.
10. Anchor HMO International Company Ltd – Abuja
    Primarily involved in NHIA-managed care schemes and cooperative health groups.
11. Oceanic Health Management Ltd – Lagos
    Offers a mix of individual and corporate health insurance solutions. Known for nationwide presence.
12. Novo Health Africa – Lagos
    Services include managed care, TPA services, and community health outreach programs.
13. Healthcare International Ltd – Lagos
    One of the older players in the industry with a reputation for managing expatriate and private sector clients.
14. Princeton Health Ltd – Port Harcourt
    Regional provider with increasing footprint in the South-South and South-East.
15. MetroHealth HMO – Lagos
    Offers affordable plans and easy online registration for freelancers and families.

Remember, NHIA approval is not permanent. HMOs can be suspended or delisted due to poor performance, financial mismanagement, or unresolved consumer complaints. Always verify current status on the NHIA website or by contacting the authority directly.

Red Flags That an HMO Might Not Be Approved

If you’re in doubt about the legitimacy of an HMO, watch out for these warning signs:

• No mention of NHIA accreditation on their website or marketing materials
• No official office address or contact number
• No list of partner hospitals or vague hospital affiliations
• High-pressure tactics asking you to pay immediately
• Negative reviews across multiple platforms with no response from the company
• Unregistered business name on CAC or missing NAFDAC/NHIA compliance

You can also call NHIA hotlines or email their support for confirmation before subscribing.

How to Choose the Right NHIA-Approved HMO for You

Having the list is one thing; making the right choice is another. Here’s how to pick the best provider from the approved list:

• Check Their Hospital Network: Confirm they partner with reputable hospitals near you.
• Review Their Plan Types: Ensure their plans match your health needs—whether you want maternity care, dental, optical, or emergency services.
• Test Their Support Team: Call or chat with their agents before subscribing. Quick response time is a good sign.
• Ask About Flexibility: Can you switch hospitals? How long is the waiting period? What’s the claim process like?
• Research Their Online Reputation: Social media reviews, blogs, and forums can give insight into customer experiences.

How Often Is the NHIA List Updated?

The NHIA reviews and updates its list periodically—sometimes every quarter, depending on audits and licensing renewals. Some HMOs may be temporarily suspended and reinstated later. That’s why relying on outdated blogs or hearsay can be risky. Always confirm from the source.

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