The Federation of Informal Workers Organisations of Nigeria (FIWON) has warned that millions of workers in the informal sector remain without adequate health coverage and social protection.
The organisation called on federal and state governments to urgently integrate informal workers into health insurance and social protection schemes.
FIWON General Secretary, Gbenga Komolafe, made the appeal in a statement, noting that workers outside the formal economy face significant financial risks when confronted with illness. He said the current system excludes the majority of Nigeria’s workforce.
According to the organisation, more than 93 per cent of Nigeria’s working population earns a livelihood in the informal sector, yet most workers lack access to pensions, health insurance, and other social protection measures that could cushion the effects of economic hardship.
“Informal workers are expected to save for retirement entirely from meagre and unstable incomes, while inflation continues to erode the value of their savings,” the statement said.
FIWON urged the government to introduce subsidised health insurance premiums for informal workers, with costs shared between the state and beneficiaries.
The organisation noted that medical expenses remain a major cause of financial distress for many households.
It added that healthcare coverage remains beyond the reach of millions of Nigerians, leaving families vulnerable to financial ruin whenever illness strikes.
FIWON also advocated free healthcare services for vulnerable groups, including pregnant women, children under five years of age, citizens aged 70 and above, and persons with disabilities.
