For Nigerians living abroad, ensuring that your relatives back home can access quality healthcare is a top priority. With Nigeria’s public healthcare system facing challenges, buying private health insurance for a family in Nigeria has become one of the most reliable ways to provide financial protection and peace of mind.
This 2025 guide explores the best health insurance plans in Nigeria, their costs, coverage benefits, and how Nigerians in the diaspora can easily purchase them online from abroad.
Nigeria’s healthcare system continues to struggle with underfunding, equipment shortages, and long waiting times. According to the World Health Organization, about 77% of Nigerians pay for healthcare out-of-pocket — one of the highest global rates — and fewer than 5% have any form of health insurance.
By enrolling your family in private health insurance plans through HMOs (Health Maintenance Organizations), you give them access to:
Better medical facilities and specialists
Faster treatment with minimal wait times
Comprehensive coverage for outpatient, inpatient, and emergency care
Private medical insurance protects your loved ones from unexpected medical costs and ensures they can receive timely care in both major cities and rural areas.
Before selecting a provider, it’s important to understand the main types of health insurance plans available in Nigeria:
Individual Plans – For single persons, covering essential medical needs
Family Plans – Covering multiple dependents (spouse, children, or parents) under one policy
Corporate or Group Plans – Designed for employees and their families
Senior Citizen Plans – Tailored to elderly relatives with specialized health needs
International Health Plans – Offers coverage both within Nigeria and abroad
Specifically created for Nigerians in the diaspora, Novo Health Africa’s Loaf Plan lets you buy health insurance for relatives in Nigeria from anywhere in the world.
Starting Price: ₦31,500 per year
Coverage: Outpatient, inpatient, emergency care, surgeries, and specialist treatment
Highlight: Only dedicated Diaspora Health Plan in Nigeria’s insurance market
Part of the global AXA Group, AXA Mansard is one of Nigeria’s most reputable HMOs with over 1,000 partner hospitals nationwide.
Starting Price: ₦20,000 per year
Coverage Includes: Maternity, mental health, HIV/AIDS care, emergency imaging (CT/MRI)
Payment Options: Monthly, quarterly, or yearly; accepts international cards
A tech-driven insurer offering flexible and affordable coverage with mobile access for real-time health management.
Starting Price: ₦3,500/month (₦42,000/year)
Key Features: Telemedicine, mental health support, fitness, and wellness perks
Contact: 0700-7354-2623 | hellonigeria@getreliancehealth.com
One of Nigeria’s oldest and most trusted HMOs, Hygeia HMO provides wide-ranging coverage for individuals, families, and seniors.
Starting Price: ₦55,590 per year
Hospital Network: 1,800+ clinics and hospitals nationwide
Special Features: Senior citizen plans, maternity cover, English-speaking doctors
Contact: 0700-494342-466 | hycare@hygeiahmo.com
Backed by over 50 years of insurance experience, Leadway Health provides modern health solutions with international reach.
Starting Price: ₦69,998.50 per year
Hospital Network: 7,000+ global providers
Highlight: International coverage options and dedicated family plans
Contact: 0201-2801-051 | 0708-0627-051
| Provider | Starting Cost (Annual) | Hospital Network | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| AXA Mansard | ₦20,000 | 1,000+ | Global brand, maternity & mental health cover |
| Novo Health Africa | ₦31,500 | Comprehensive | Diaspora Loaf Plan |
| Reliance HMO | ₦42,000 | 2,000+ | Telemedicine & wellness perks |
| Hygeia HMO | ₦55,590 | 1,800+ | Senior & family plans |
| Leadway Health | ₦69,998.50 | 7,000+ worldwide | Global access, family plans |
Buying health insurance for your relatives in Nigeria from abroad is now easier than ever. Most leading HMOs accept international payment methods, including credit/debit cards and bank transfers.
Steps to buy health insurance for a family in Nigeria from abroad:
Visit the provider’s website and select your preferred plan.
Complete the online form with your relative’s details (name, BVN, ID).
Make a payment using your international debit or credit card.
Receive confirmation — coverage starts within 24–48 hours.
When comparing health insurance plans, ensure your chosen policy includes key benefits like:
Outpatient Services: Consultations, lab tests, medications
Inpatient Care: Hospital admissions, surgeries, specialist visits
Maternity Care: Antenatal, delivery, and postnatal services
Chronic Disease Management: Diabetes, hypertension, asthma
Emergency Services: Ambulance and emergency room care
Dental & Optical: Routine checkups and vision care
Health insurance offers coverage, but you can also strengthen your family’s healthcare support through diaspora banking and money transfers.
Platforms like nairaCompare help you:
Compare diaspora savings accounts for medical emergencies
Find affordable international transfer options for co-payments and hospital bills
Secure better FX rates when sending money for healthcare support
Can I buy health insurance for multiple relatives?
Yes. Most providers offer family plans covering multiple dependents at discounted rates.
Are pre-existing conditions covered?
Some insurers offer coverage after a 6–12 month waiting period. Always confirm with your provider.
What happens during emergencies?
Emergency care is typically covered immediately, with direct billing to hospitals — no upfront payment needed.
Can I manage the plan online from abroad?
Yes. Many HMOs like Reliance and AXA Mansard offer online dashboards and customer support for diaspora clients.
When selecting health insurance for your relatives in Nigeria, focus on reliability, hospital coverage, and ease of payment from abroad.
The best health insurance plans for Nigerians in the diaspora — like Novo Health Africa’s Loaf Plan, Reliance HMO, and AXA Mansard — combine affordability, accessibility, and strong medical networks.
Investing in quality healthcare coverage for your family today ensures long-term financial security and peace of mind, no matter where you live.