Top 10 Health Insurance Plans in Nigeria in 2025 (Affordable & Reliable Options)

Health insurance in Nigeria is no longer a luxury — it’s becoming a necessity.

• Prices
• Coverage limits
• What each HMO offers
• Who each plan is best for
• How to choose the right health insurance plan for your needs

Why Health Insurance Matters in Nigeria 

Healthcare costs have surged by 35–60% in the last three years. Out-of-pocket spending now accounts for 70%+ of all health expenses in Nigeria.

This means:

• One hospital admission can cost ₦80k–₦300k

• A surgery can run into ₦400k–₦2 million+

• Specialist care and diagnostics are more expensive than ever

Health insurance protects you from these unpredictable costs — giving you affordable access to quality healthcare without fear of financial setbacks.

Understanding the Health Insurance System in Nigeria

Nigeria’s health insurance ecosystem currently works through two major providers and channels:

1. NHIA (National Health Insurance Authority)

• Covers formal sector workers

• Often employer-led

• Increasingly integrating informal-sector coverage

• Regulated by the federal government

• Growing adoption through state health schemes

2. HMOs (Private Health Maintenance Organizations)

These serve:

• Individuals

• Families

• SMEs

• Large corporations

They provide healthcare through approved hospitals and clinic networks. HMOs offer multiple plan tiers — from basic to premium.

Top 10 Health Insurance Plans in Nigeria in 2025

These are the most reliable, widely accepted, and best-rated health insurance providers in Nigeria for 2025. Rankings consider affordability, hospital access, customer experience, coverage limits, digital support, emergency care, and value for money.

1. Reliance HMO – Red Beryl Plan (₦38,650/year)

Reliance HMO consistently ranks as one of the fastest-growing health insurance providers in Nigeria because of its digital-first approach, responsive customer support, and extremely flexible plans. The Red Beryl plan has become a favourite for young professionals, students, and SMEs looking for reliable coverage without high premiums.

With a network of thousands of hospitals across Nigeria and features like free telemedicine and gym sessions, Reliance offers strong value for its price — especially for everyday healthcare needs.

Key Benefits:

• Coverage up to  ₦1.2 million

• 2,000+ partner hospitals

• Free telemedicine

• Weekly gym sessions

• Surgeries up to ₦150,000

• Very easy to use through the mobile app

  Best for:

  Individuals, freelancers, students, and small business owners.

  
  

  2. AXA Mansard – EasyCare Plan (₦20,000/year)

  AXA Mansard is one of the most trusted insurers in Nigeria and globally. The EasyCare plan targets Nigerians who want essential coverage at a low entry price with the reassurance of AXA’s established infrastructure.

  The plan is known for its ease of use, availability in over 1,000 hospitals, and flexible payment structure, making it ideal for first-time subscribers to health insurance.

  A budget-friendly plan with a strong nationwide presence.

  Key Benefits:

• Care for common illnesses

• Hospital consultations

• Access to 1,000+ hospitals

• 24/7 customer support

• Flexible payment options

  Best for:

  Budget-conscious users, first-time HMO subscribers, and low-income earners.

3. Hygeia HMO Plans

Hygeia is widely regarded as one of the most reputable HMOs in Nigeria, with decades of consistency. Their plans appeal to families, individuals, and senior citizens because of broad hospital access and predictable service delivery.

Hygeia’s strong claim processing system and longevity in the market make it a go-to for Nigerians who prefer a traditional, well-established healthcare provider.

Key Benefits

• Massive hospital network

• Plans for individuals, families, and seniors

• Fast customer support

• Automated systems for seamless access

  Best for:

  Families, older adults, and users prioritising stability and nationwide reach.

  
  

  4. Avon HMO (From ₦27,500/year)

  Avon HMO stands out for its modern communication, customer care culture, and easily understandable plan structure. Their plans offer generous coverage limits compared to many competitors and cater to both individuals and corporate groups.

  Avon has become popular among millennials and working professionals who want a balance between affordability and quality healthcare access.

  Key Benefits:

• Coverage: Up to ₦2.5 million

• Basic plans with ₦800k coverage

• Specialist care

• 300+ partner hospitals

• NHIA accredited

Best for:

Working professionals, families, and corporate teams.

5. SUNU Health Nigeria – Retail PEARL Plan (₦46,904/year)

SUNU Health offers some of the most flexible plans for individuals and micro-businesses. The retail PEARL Plan is especially designed for Nigerians seeking an affordable but comprehensive health package that works nationwide.

Its strong emphasis on emergency care, specialist consultations, and broad drug coverage makes it one of the best mid-range options in the market..

Key Benefits:

• Specialist consultations

• Drug prescriptions

• Nationwide emergency cover

• Plans for multinationals and SMEs

  Best for:

  Informal sector workers, micro-businesses, families on a budget.

  
  

  6. Leadway Health (Premium Options)

  Leadway Health is ideal for people who prefer premium healthcare services, including international evacuation, extensive specialist coverage, and high annual limits.
  
  With plans like the Gold Plan covering up to ₦12 million annually, Leadway appeals to high-income earners, executives, and families looking for top-tier care.
  
  Key Benefits:
  
  

• Gold Plan up to ₦12 million annually

• International treatment & evacuations

• Maternity, dental & optical

• Annual checkups & vaccinations

  Best for:

  Executives, high-income earners, and those seeking premium or international coverage.

  
  

  7. Total Health Trust (THT) – Alldo Plan (₦44,600/year)

  THT has provided managed healthcare in Nigeria for over two decades and remains one of the most trusted names among big organisations and institutions.

  The Alldo Plan offers predictable and wide-ranging care — from primary consultations to surgeries and telemedicine — at a competitive price point.

  Key Benefits: 

• Wide hospital network

• Primary to tertiary care coverage

• Telemedicine services

• Consistent service since 1998

  Best for:

  Families, salaried workers, and organisations seeking stable coverage.

   

  8. HCI Healthcare – Titanium Compact Plan (₦35,000/year)

  HCI Healthcare focuses on affordability without stripping down essential benefits. Its Titanium Plan is particularly attractive for SMEs, startups, and individuals who want a decent plan without premium costs.
  
  Their NHIA license and good network coverage make HCI one of the reliable, budget-friendly options.
  
  Key Benefits:

• Nationwide provider network

• NHIA licensed

• Emphasis on affordability

• Plans for individuals and organisations

  Best for:

  SMEs, startups, young individuals, and budget-focused users.

  
  

  9. WellHealth – Individual Plan (₦18,500/year)

  WellHealth offers one of the lowest-priced annual plans in the market, making it great for Nigerians seeking basic coverage at minimal cost.
  
  Despite being affordable, the provider still offers a good hospital network and simple onboarding, which appeals to first-time HMO users and low-income earners.
  
  Key Benefits:

• Low-cost annual plans

• Strong hospital partnerships

• Family-friendly options

• Customer-first service

Best for:

Students, low-income earners, and first-time HMO subscribers.

10. Clearline HMO (From ₦50,000/year)

Clearline has been in the HMO industry for years and maintains one of the largest hospital networks in Nigeria. The provider offers various personal and family plans and has built a reputation for reliability and stability.

The KiaKia telemedicine plan is also one of the most widely used low-cost digital options for everyday healthcare needs.

• Personal plans starting at ₦50,000

• KiaKia Telemedicine Plan (₦5,000)

• 2,000+ partner hospitals

Corporate and individual plans

Best for:

Families, corporations, and users are seeking large hospital networks.

Which benefits matter most to you?

• Wide Hospital Network → Reliance HMO, Clearline, AXA

• Cheapest Price → WellHealth, AXA EasyCare

• Best for Families → Avon HMO, Reliance HMO

• Best for Maternity → Leadway Health, Hygeia

• Premium Care & High Limits → Leadway Health

• Telemedicine-First Plans → Reliance HMO, Clearline KiaKia Plan

How to Choose the Best Health Insurance Plan for You

• Coverage: Does it cover medication, emergencies, surgeries, maternity, dental, and optical?
• Hospital Network: Check if your preferred hospitals are included.
• Cost: Balance price against what’s covered — the cheapest may not be the best for your needs.
• Customer Service: Fast access, easy claims, responsive support.
• Extra Benefits: Telemedicine, wellness programs, vaccinations, gym access, etc.
  
  

  FAQs - Health Insurance Plans

1. What is the average cost of health insurance in Nigeria?

Most individuals pay between ₦20,000 and ₦60,000 per year, depending on coverage, hospital network, and provider. Premium plans can go above ₦100,000 yearly.

2. Does health insurance cover pre-existing conditions?

• Basic plans: Usually NO, or require a waiting period (30–90 days).

• Premium plans: Often YES, with higher limits and specialist access.
  Always check the plan brochure to confirm.

3. Can I use my HMO at any hospital?

No, you can only use hospitals within the approved provider network.
This is why network size matters.

4. Does health insurance cover maternity care?

• Some basic plans: No

• Mid-range plans: Partial cover

• Premium plans: Full maternity, antenatal, postnatal

  If you’re planning a pregnancy, go for Leadway, Avon, or Hygeia premium tiers.

5. Are surgeries covered?

Yes. Coverage depends on your plan tier:

• Budget plans: Up to ₦100k–₦150k

• Mid-range plans: Up to ₦300k–₦800k

• Premium plans: Up to ₦1m–₦5m+

6. How do I check if a hospital accepts my HMO?

• Use your HMO’s mobile app (Reliance, Avon, Leadway)

• Visit the HMO’s hospital directory online

• Call customer support

• Ask the hospital directly

7. Does health insurance cover emergencies?

Most plans include:

• ER consultations

• Stabilisation

• Ambulance (in premium tiers)

• Emergency evacuation (Leadway, Hygeia premium)

8. Can I upgrade my plan later?

Yes — but upgrades may require:

• Waiting periods

• Medical examinations

• Additional payments

9. What happens if I miss my premium payment?

Your plan may be:

• Suspended

• Temporarily inactive

• Or downgraded

Reliance is the most flexible with grace periods.

10. Can I buy health insurance for my parents?

Yes. Hygeia and Avon offer senior citizen plans ideal for parents aged 55+.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the best health insurance plan in Nigeria in 2025 comes down to three things: cost, coverage, and access to quality hospitals. With the right information, you can avoid overpriced plans, long waiting times, and unexpected exclusions. It is also helpful for those in Diaspora.

Use this guide as your starting point, compare the top HMOs, and select a plan that aligns with your medical needs and budget.

What’s New?

We’re constantly improving how you compare, choose, and manage your financial decisions — from health insurance to investments. As Nigeria’s financial landscape evolves, we’re building tools that simplify the complex, cut through misinformation, and put clarity at your fingertips.

Meet Maxella AI.

When you need smarter, faster, and more personalised insights across insurance, loans, FX, savings, and investments — she’s your always-awake financial wingwoman. Maxella tracks the market, analyses options, and surfaces the best choices tailored to you.