Abuja — World Bank at the weekend assured that it will assist the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) in the area of funding.

The financial aid from the bank, according to a statement in Abuja, is to support the NHIS in its bid to create access to affordable healthcare for Nigerians.

Scott Featherton, Health and Education Investment Officer of the International Finance Corporation (IFC), an arm of the World Bank, was said to have dropped the hint during a visit to the NHIS head office in Abuja.

"We can bring in some funds and help get the request for proposal in critical areas. The NHIS is a typical example of a successful public private partnership in Nigeria's emerging economy," he said.

Featherton, who led a three-man technical team on the visit, stated that the IFC was established to increase private sector roles in public institutions, while providing them financial assistance.

He added that the NHIS has demonstrated sufficient commitment to earn the support of the Bretton Wood institution.

He noted that relevant support in capacity building and service expansion would enable the scheme achieve its prescribed objectives.

According to him, the IFC envisages that its assistance will increase the NHIS's capacity to excel and better its regulatory roles, stakeholder integration and Health Maintenance Organisations (HMOs) management.

Speaking during the visit, Executive Secretary of NHIS, Waziri Dogo-Muhammad, highlighted the work of the NHIS since it was established.