Port Harcourt has a growing number of private hospitals and specialist clinics, but medical bills can add up quickly. A health plan from an HMO (Health Maintenance Organisation) covers the cost of care at partner hospitals across the city. This guide explains your options for health insurance in Port Harcourt, including the Rivers State scheme and private HMOs, and how to choose the right HMO.
The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) Act of 2022 makes health insurance mandatory for all Nigerians. Rivers State also runs its own scheme for residents. Many employers in Port Harcourt, especially in oil and gas and services, cover their staff through an HMO. New to health insurance? Read what an HMO is and how it works.
The Rivers State Contributory Health Protection Programme (RIVCHPP) began operating in 2024 and had enrolled over 145,000 residents, according to BusinessDay (April 2026). Residents outside vulnerable groups pay from ₦25,000 a year, and vulnerable groups such as children under five, people over 60 and pregnant women can be enrolled free. It is an affordable option for basic care.
A private HMO plan usually gives you:
Prices depend on the plan, the hospitals included and the benefits. Individual plans in Nigeria start from around ₦12,000 a year at the cheapest end, while plans with access to higher-tier private hospitals cost more. See how much an HMO costs in Nigeria.
Reliance HMO partners with hospitals, children’s hospitals, eye clinics and dental centres across Port Harcourt, including in GRA Phase 2 and 4, D-Line, Woji, Trans-Amadi, Rumuomasi, Rumuogba, Rumuigbo, Elekahia and along Peter Odili Road. The network also includes a Reliance Family Clinic in Port Harcourt. See the full list with addresses on our hospitals in Port Harcourt page, and read about Reliance Family Clinics in Port Harcourt.
Read more: how to compare HMOs in Nigeria.
Group plans let employers cover their teams at a lower cost per person. See our small business plans and company health plans.
Related: Best HMO in Nigeria: how to choose the right plan
Which is the best HMO in Port Harcourt?
It depends on the hospitals you want, your budget and the benefits you need. Compare hospital lists, limits and customer service before you choose.
Can I use my plan outside Rivers State?
With a national HMO such as Reliance HMO, yes. Partner hospitals are available in other states, and emergency care is covered.
How do I register?
See how to register for an HMO in Nigeria.
