Despite the shift from NHIS to NHIA in 2022, Nigeria’s journey to universal health coverage faces entrenched obstacles—low enrollment, poor funding, and public distrust. AI and information technology could unlock smarter funding models, predictive healthcare planning, and citizen trust—if implemented decisively and inclusively. Nigeria’s National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), launched in 2005, aimed to reduce out-of-pocket health spending and make care accessible. Yet, for over 15 years, fewer than 5% of Nigerians enrolled, with 70% of healthcare costs still paid directly by citizens. Structural weaknesses—voluntary participation, limited funding, and poor infrastructure—hampered progress. The 2022 transformation into the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) was a bold step. NHIA made health insurance mandatory for all residents, expanded regulatory authority, and promised standardized packages, including subsidies for vulnerable groups. However, major challenges persist: w...