Dr. Ibrahim Wada, a renowned gynecologist and CEO of Nisa Premier Medical Group, has urged the federal government to include fertility treatment in the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS). According to Wada, infertility is a significant challenge facing many Nigerian families, with one in six couples struggling to conceive. The high cost of fertility treatment, which can be prohibitively expensive for the average Nigerian, exacerbates the problem. Wada emphasized that fertility solutions are often beyond the reach of most people, and it is essential to make them more accessible.
Wada also stressed that infertility is not solely a women’s issue, as men are equally affected. He cited his 30 years of experience, which shows that infertility affects both men and women equally. He encouraged couples, especially those marrying after the age of 35, to undergo early fertility checks to address any potential issues promptly. Wada also condemned illegal adoption practices and child trafficking, calling for stronger laws to protect families dealing with infertility.
To raise awareness about infertility, Nisa Premier Hospital organized an Infertility Awareness Walk, which took place in Abuja. The event aimed to educate the public about the importance of addressing infertility and the available treatment options. Dr. Esther Emeka-Irem, a consultant obstetrician and gynecologist, noted that late marriages, poor health-seeking behavior, and untreated infections are significant causes of infertility in Nigeria. She emphasized that assisted reproductive treatments like In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) can be an effective solution for many couples.
Emeka-Irem highlighted that IVF in Nigeria is relatively affordable, costing between ₦3 million and ₦4 million, compared to over $10,000 in Western countries. She also mentioned that Nisa Premier Hospital has recorded over 5,000 live births since its first IVF baby in 1996. The hospital’s Infertility Awareness Week, which runs until August 2, 2025, aims to provide free medical consultations and raise awareness about the importance of addressing infertility. By including fertility treatment in the NHIS, the government can help make these life-changing treatments more accessible to those who need them.