Help Nigeria / Services in Nigeria / Health and mental health

Health and mental health

Can Refugees Get Healthcare in Nigeria?

Yes. Refugees and asylum seekers can use health services in Nigeria, just like Nigerians. But most services are not free. You usually pay for treatment yourself.

What is free or low-cost?

  • Free services: Routine immunization, family planning, HIV care, and tuberculosis treatment.
  • Low-cost services: Primary health care (basic care) is cheaper because the government subsidizes it.
  • Paid services: Secondary and tertiary care (specialist hospitals, surgeries) cost more.

How to Reduce Your Health Costs

You can join a health insurance scheme. This helps you pay less when you visit hospitals.

Health insurance scheme options:

State Health Insurance:

  • Lagos: Ilera Eko (Mon–Fri, 8am–5pm)
  • Kano: KSCHIMA – Call +234 813 988 0260 or visit kschma.org

Private Health Insurance (HMOs):

  • AXA Mansard – Call 0700 AXAMANSARD or visit axamansard.com
  • Hygea Integrated Healthcare
  • Avon HMO

Tip: Insurance plans have different packages. Some cover everything (you pay nothing at the hospital), others require you to pay part of the cost.

How does Nigeria’s health system work?

Nigeria has three levels of healthcare:

Primary Health Care (PHC):

  • First place to go for care.
  • Services: Immunization, maternal and child health, health education, treatment for common illnesses.
  • Managed by local government.

Tip: Every ward has a PHC center. Ask local leaders or community health workers for directions.

Secondary Care:

  • General hospitals and some private hospitals.
  • Services: Outpatient care, inpatient care, surgeries, diagnostic tests.
  • You need a referral from a PHC for most services.

Tertiary Care:

  • Teaching hospitals and federal medical centers.
  • Advanced care, specialized treatment, and surgeries.
  • Usually more expensive.

Practical Tips for Refugees

  • Carry your ID: Always bring your refugee or asylum seeker ID when visiting a health facility.
  • Ask about free services: Immunization, HIV, TB, and family planning are free.
  • Find the nearest PHC: It’s the cheapest and easiest place to start.
  • Emergency? Go to the nearest hospital or call local emergency numbers.
  • Mental health support: Ask at PHC centers or NGOs for counseling services.