Human rights lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Femi Falana, has urged the Federal Government to fully enforce the National Health Insurance Authority Act 2022 to guarantee health insurance coverage for Nigerians.

Falana made the call on Wednesday in Victoria Island, Lagos, at the launch of a N1 billion insurance trust fund for entertainers.

He said the NHIA Act, which provides for mandatory health insurance, should be implemented to protect citizens, particularly vulnerable groups, from the financial burden associated with healthcare.

The senior lawyer stressed the need for stronger protection for workers in the entertainment industry, many of whom lack adequate health and insurance coverage.

Falana said effective implementation of the law would help ensure that Nigerians could access healthcare without being pushed into financial hardship.

The call came as stakeholders launched the N1 billion insurance trust fund initiative for players in the entertainment industry.

The initiative was launched by Groove Tyme Entertainment in collaboration with Meristem, Leadway Assurance and other stakeholders to provide insurance protection for artistes and other vulnerable groups in the sector.

The event also featured the presentation of certificates to members of the initiative’s Board of Trustees.

Falana urged relevant government agencies to ensure that the provisions of the NHIA Act were translated into practical healthcare protection for Nigerians rather than remaining largely on paper.